Contraceptive Choices among Postnatal Mothers Admitted To the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: The postpartum period offers a key opportunity for initiating contraception to improve maternal and child health. However, actual contraceptive uptake in urban hospital settings remains inconsistent.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2024 to December 2025 among 397 postnatal mothers at Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analysed using appropriate statistical methods.

Results: Although awareness of contraception was high, actual usage was moderate, with tubal sterilisation being the most used method. Future preference towards intrauterine devices was noted. Counselling from healthcare providers showed a significant association with both contraceptive use and method of choice (p < 0.05). Key barriers to usage included fear of side effects, lack of information, and cultural factors.

Conclusion: Strengthening postnatal contraceptive counselling and improving access to diverse methods are essential for enhancing contraceptive uptake among postnatal women in urban tertiary care settings.