Physicians' views of periodic abstinence methods: a study in four countries

Studies in Family Planning, 19(4), 215-226

Source

Abstract

A study of the knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intentions of physicians regarding periodic abstinence (PA) methods was undertaken in Mauritius, Peru, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Most respondents considered PA to be useful, although even the PA providers prescribed mainly non-PA methods. Detailed knowledge of PA methods was not evident, but most physicians were willing to initiate general discussion about PA with patients. Physicians favored methods perceived as "scientific" and "modern," which primarily prevent pregnancy and secondarily avoid other health risks. When carefully presented as "scientific" and "modern," methods presented to medical audiences may find acceptance and be more likely to result in referral.

Topics

physician attitudes natural family planning, periodic abstinence methods medical perception, cross-cultural fertility awareness acceptance, basal body temperature physician knowledge, cervical mucus method provider attitudes, symptothermal method medical education, doctor perception natural family planning, FABM physician referral patterns, scientific presentation fertility awareness, modern contraception provider bias, physician barriers natural methods, international comparison family planning attitudes

Cite this article

Snowden, R., Kennedy, K. I., Leon, F., Orense, V. C., Perera, H. W., Phillips, R., Askew, I., Flynn, A., & Severy, L. J. (1988). Physicians' views of periodic abstinence methods: a study in four countries. *Studies in family planning*, *19*(4), 215-226.

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