Investigating the quality of family planning counselling as part of routine antenatal care and its effect on intended postpartum contraceptive method choice among women in Nepal

• DOI: 10.1186/s12905-020-00904-y
• Publication Date: 2020-02-18T13:03:03Z
• Authors: Mahesh C. Puri; Matthew Moroni; Erin Pearson; Elina Pradhan; Iqbal H. Shah
• Keywords: Postnatal Care; Maternity care

Abstract Background Though modern contraceptive use among married women in Nepal has increased from 26% 1996 to 43% 2016, it remains low postpartum women. Integration of counselling on family planning (FP) at the time antenatal care (ANC) and delivery potential increase post-partum use. This study investigates quality FP services provided during ANC visits women’s perceptions its effectiveness assisting them make a (PPFP) decision. Methods In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with 24 pregnant who had attended least two one six public hospitals that received an intervention sought integrate maternity introduce intrauterine device insertion immediate period. IDIs data collected as part process evaluation this intervention. Women selected using maximum variation sampling represent different socio-demographic characteristics. audio recorded, transcribed verbatim Nepali, translated into English. Data organized Bruce-Jain framework analyzed thematically. Results Overall, was unsatisfactory based patient expectations experience interactions providers, well methods offered. Despite their interest, most reported they did not receive thorough information about FP, third said any PPFP. Reasons for dissatisfaction included very crowded environment, short provider, non-availability long waiting times, limited number days services, lack comprehensive FP-related information, education (IEC) materials. visiting dedicated counselor higher counselling. Conclusions There is urgent need re-visit format PPFP visits, corresponding IEC materials, setting, strengthen availability interaction providers order improve quality, satisfaction visits. Improvements infrastructure human resources are also needed adequately meet needs.