Awareness and Usage of Contraceptive Methods among HIV-positive Women in Delhi

Abstract

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic continues to take a heavy toll on women and children worldwide. Contraceptive use is an important and cost-effective strategy to reduce mother to child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. This study was undertaken to assess knowledge, attitude and practices about contraceptive methods among HIV positive women and factors influencing the choice of contraceptive methods in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. A tertiary care hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Delhi selecting 80 HIV-positive women from Gynecology OPD by convenience sampling. Patients were interviewed using a pretested and predesigned questionnaire. Results were presented in simple proportions. Difference in proportions between groups was assessed using Chi-square or Fisher test. It was accepted for statistical significance when error was less than 5%. Fifty-three (66.2%) of the patients were in WHO Stage I of the disease, 24 (30%) patients in Stage II and 3 (3.7%) were in Stage III. The partners of 67 (83.7%) subjects were HIV-positive. Seventy-seven (96.25%) of the patients were aware that they needed to use contraceptive method. Knowledge was good about barrier methods (100%) and IUD (96.10%). Fifty-eight (75.32%) were using any one method of contraception. Among the patients using contraception, 35 (60.34%) were using barrier method, 11 (18.97%) were using intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs), 2 (3.45%) were using oral contraceptive pills and 10 (17.24%) patients were reported to have undergone sterilization procedures. Their use was because of convenience and easy availability. In spite of high awareness, the usage of contraceptives among HIV-positive women was low. Therefore, effective counseling should be instituted to increase regular usage of contraception. 

Keywords : awareness, contraceptives, HIV, Delhi