Abstract: Introduction: Contraception is defined as prevention of conception voluntarily through use of various methods like condoms, sexual practices, drugs (progesterone, oral contraceptive pills etc.) surgical procedures. Any method whose purpose is to prevent women becoming pregnant is considered as contraceptive method. The aim of Contraception is to achieve maximum comfort and privacy with minimum cost and side effects. Contraception allows a couple to enjoy physical relation without fear of unwanted pregnancy and to beget child when desired.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Government Maternity Hospital, Tirupati. A total of 300 postpartum women were enrolled in the study.
Results: Among 300 women in the study group, more than 80% were in the age group of 15 to 30 years.51.7% women in urban areas, 48.3% women in rural areas. Acceptance was highest in women with 2 to 3 children. Maximum number of women were aware of female sterilization (90.1%), condoms (88%), intra uterine device (77.6%), OC pills (75.2%), POP’s (56%). Knowledge regarding emergency contraception was very low (2.9%). In our study at present 48% of postpartum women were using IUCD and 12% opted for female sterilization.
Conclusion: Awareness of contraception given when pregnant women comes for first antenatal visit. Cafetaria approach according to the women needs.