BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to analyze the reasons for the failure of contraception and the reasons for not using any contraception among women seeking a legal abortion on social grounds. The women were also asked about their knowledge of contraception methods, including postcoital contraception.

METHODS

We interviewed 200 women applying for a legal abortion within the first trimester of pregnancy about contraception, the contraceptive methods used, and the possible reasons for failure of contraception.

RESULTS

Of all the women interviewed, 93% claimed to have adequate knowledge of contraception. At the time of conception 11.5% used safe methods (OCs 8%, IUDs 3.5%), 63% used less safe methods, and 26% were without contraception. Only 25% of the pill users had no explanation for the failure. 76.7% of the condom users reported that the condom was broken, had slipped off or its use had been irregular. The concern about side effects was the most common reason for not using safe contraceptives (25%).

CONCLUSIONS

The women claimed to have enough information about contraceptives, and postcoital contraception was also familiar, but the knowledge on how to use them in practice was inadequate. Irregular use and breaks in contraception were common. Despite the data based on Pearl indices, pills failed twice as often as IUDs. Counseling about the proper use of contraceptives is important, although the concern about the side effects appeared to be a big, unsolved problem.