Knowledge and Use of Contraception Among Racha Koyas of Andhra Pradesh

Government of India is following a non-coercive approach in promoting family planning methods. Despite its strenuous efforts through a vast network of functionaries, there appears a gap between the achievements and targets. Deciding upon the desired size of the family is influenced by a variety of factors such as socio-economic, cultural, attitudinal and behavioural. Scheduled Tribe population are categorized as a special group in the National Health Policy for extending the health care services. This paper attempts to study the extent of knowledge and use of contraception among Racha Koyas, a tribal population from Warangal district of Andhra Pradesh. It is noticed that the level of knowledge of contraceptive methods among the women interviewed is satisfactory and there is scope for improving the acceptance rate. Preferred methods are the permanent methods of sterilization while the spacing methods are not popular. The treatment seeking behaviour of these women with regard to the health problems due to contraceptives is encouraging as they are accepting and inclined towards modern health care services.