Comparison of perspectives in women and men – About side
effects of contraceptions in Iran
F Hejazi, H Malekafzali, F Ramezani tehrani, N Paykari,
SH Djalalinia
NRCRH, Tehran-Tehran, Iran
Objectives Based on available data in Iran in spite of
availability of the free of charge services, 1/5 eligible people for use of
contraception, use traditional contraceptions. Majority of them express the fear
of different side effects of modern contraceptions as a reason for non using
them, therefore knowing their attitude regarding side effects is necessary for
expanding its usage.
Materials and methods Our study was a cross-sectional
study which conducted in 3 provinces Boushehr, Golestan, Kordestan and
Islamshahr city in Tehran which UNFPA has provided specific family planning
counseling and services through 2000-2004.By using systematic random sampling
method 200 clusters (100 rural clusters & 100 urban clusters) which contain
of 20 eligible families (married men or women age 15-45 y.o) were chosen.
Results OCP has been mentioned as the most known
contraception method (83%) among both men and women.Minipill was the least known
contraception among women (33%), however it was Norplant for men (12/8%). 32/9%
of contraceptive users use hormonal methods and it was 10/9%, 9/5%, 29/2% and
16/6% for IUD, condom, permanent methods and traditional ones respectively. Men
and women had the same perception regarding the side effects of the modern
contraception methods except for minipill.Menstrual irregulation was mentioned
as the most common complication of DMPA and IUD but it was mood change for OCP
and low back pain for tubectomy. Menstrual irragulation has mentioned as the
most common side effects of minipill among men but it was weight gain for women.
Conclusion It seems that enhancing men’s awareness and
their participation in family planning and introducing various modern
contraceptive methods increase its usage among couples and eventually reduce the
risk of unwanted pregnancy and its complication.