Knowledge and awareness of contraceptive methods among palestinian midwives, Palestine

Introduction: Despite reliable evidence that the contraceptive methods are highly effective and useful in family planning when used properly, it remains under used in many countries. The aim of this study was to assess the current knowledge about contraceptive methods included (hormonal and copper IUD) and (monophasic and biphasic pills) among Palestinian midwives who work in private hospitals in the southern West Bank, Palestine. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted at six private hospital in Bethlehem and Hebron of West Bank, Palestine. Convenience (purposive) sampling method was used in sample selection; it included 150 participants who were interviewed and filled a self-administered questionnaire. Results: A total of 150 midwives participated in this study, more two thirds of them were between 20 to 34 years of age, (56 %) were not uses of contraceptive methods, (60.7 %) were married and also closed to half had 1 to 4 years of experience (48 %). The knowledge of contraceptive methods was, (51.8%), (51.5 %), (45.9 %) and (58.6 %) for hormonal IUD, copper IUD, monophasic and biphasic pills; respectively. In addition, there is a relationship between knowledge of contraceptive methods and use of contraceptive methods by midwives at (p = < .011), department of work (p = < .019), average cumulative (p = < 0.00) and place of resident (p = <0.014). Discussion and Conclusions: Although contraceptive methods are available free of charge in our public service, it is not being used. Information about contraceptive methods are available but not utilized by midwives in the private hospitals tested. The data suggests the need to expand education for health service provider in order to improve acceptability of contraceptive methods.