Quick Search
Obstetrics and gynecology specialists’ contraceptive preferences: experiences, attitudes, and reflections on patient counseling
Ayşe Betül Albayrak Denizli, Eralp Bulutlar, Pınar KumruDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Health Sciences, Turkey. Istanbul Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children’s Diseases Health Training and Research Center, Istanbul, TurkeyINTRODUCTION: This study aims to explore the contraceptive preferences, experiences, and attitudes of obstetricians and gynecologists, focusing on the alignment between their personal choices and professional practices in patient counseling.
METHODS: An online survey was conducted among 92 obstetricians and gynecologists from seven hospitals in Istanbul between September and October 2024. The survey consisted of three sections addressing demographic data, contraceptive preferences, and patient counseling practices. Data were analyzed to identify trends in contraceptive use, satisfaction, and perspectives on permanent methods such as tubal ligation and vasectomy.
RESULTS: The most commonly used contraceptive methods were condoms (47.8%) and oral contraceptive pills (32.6%), valued for their ease of use and secondary health benefits, respectively. Traditional methods, such as withdrawal and the calendar method, were associated with all reported unintended pregnancies (7.6%). Among respondents, 74% expressed positive views on tubal ligation and vasectomy, yet 42 did not discuss vasectomy with their patients. Physicians demonstrated high satisfaction with modern methods, though cultural and personal factors shaped their contraceptive choices and counseling practices.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The study reveals that while obstetricians and gynecologists effectively utilize modern contraceptive methods, traditional methods remain in use and contribute to unintended pregnancies. Cultural and religious factors significantly impact attitudes towards permanent methods and patient counseling. These findings underscore the need for enhanced education and culturally sensitive counseling strategies to improve contraceptive adherence and patient outcomes.
Manuscript Language: English
