The acceptability of combined oral hormonal contraceptives in Shanghai, People's Republic of China

Junling Chen, Karen B Smith, Susan Morrow, Anna Glasier, Linan Cheng

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Although combined oral hormonal contraceptives have been described as the most significant medical advance of the 20th century, the usage rate in the People's Republic of China is considerably lower than in developed countries. This survey aimed to explore the acceptability of combined oral hormonal contraceptives (COC) amongst women aged 18-35 years who attended the family planning clinic in the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital in Shanghai, as well as amongst gynecologists who worked in the same hospital. In total, 500 clients and 89 gynecologists were recruited. Only 12% of the clients had ever used COC. Women with a lower educational level or parous women were more likely to use COC (p < 0.05). COC was the third most popular method recommended by the gynecologists (85.4%). Both groups were concerned about the risks and side effects of COC, especially younger doctors and doctors with fewer years of experience (p < 0.01). The results of the survey suggest that it is necessary to provide improved training about COC to reproductive-aged women and professionals to dispel misunderstandings of the pill.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)281-5
Number of pages5
JournalContraception
Volume67
Issue number4
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2003

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • China
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined
  • Developing Countries
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care

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