Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding modern methods of postpartum contraception among postnatal mothers

Introduction: Improving postpartum contraceptive use is an important programmatic strategy to improve the health and well-being of women, newborns and children in a country. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding postpartum contraception among postnatal mothers. Methods: A cross sectional study on 300 postnatal mothers was carried at Teaching Hospital Mahamodara (THM) Galle. Multiparous mothers were recruited using convenient sampling method. Data collection was done using a validated, self-administered structured questionnaire after obtaining informed consent. Questionnaire was designed to assess on knowledge, attitudes and practices of postpartum contraception. Results: Level of knowledge regarding postpartum contraception was above average in 15.8% of mothers and below average in 46.6% of them. The majority of them were aware regarding Combined Oral Contraceptives Pills (COCP). Almost 60% of women of Islamic and Hindu religions believed that contraception is not accepted by their religion. Among postnatal mothers, 70.2% had previous practices of postpartum contraception and the commonest method used was COCP. Approximately 76% of mothers gained information regarding postpartum family planning from Public Health Midwives (PHM).