Regional Survey about Determinants of Supply and Insertion of the Intrauterine Device among Health Providers

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The intrauterine device (IUD) is the most cost-efficient reversible contraceptive method. Low utilization is reported in Argentina and the region under study. Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of providers can strongly influence the choice of method among users. OBJECTIVES: To describe the KAP of healthcare providers in the urban conglomerate Neuquén/Plottier/Centenario as regards IUD in 2013, in order to characterize the determinants of promotion and possible barriers. METHODS: A descriptive observational cross-sectional study was performed with a non-probabilistic sample of 335 gynecologists, general practitioners and midwives, using an anonymous online survey. RESULTS: The response rate was 31% (N = 103), 80 of them working in the public sector. The knowledge was correct, and the opinions of providers were favorable to the method. In 9 out of 12 situations, more than 50% said they would not recommend or insert IUDs. Half of the people surveyed had inserted less than 10 IUDs in the previous year, and 12% had not inserted any. Two out of ten were concerned about some of the issues. CONCLUSIONS: The right knowledge and the favorable opinions do not correspond to the low number of IUDs inserted. There are barriers to eligibility and access, as well as little use of interventions validated by the evidence.