Knowledge and practices of lactational amenorrhea among urban slum-dwelling women in Chandigarh

BACKGROUND: Unmet family planning needs persist globally, especially in developing countries. The lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) offers a natural, cost-effective option for post-partum women, promoting optimal breastfeeding and maternal health while providing effective contraception. OBJECTIVES: To assess knowledge, perceptions and beliefs, and practices regarding LAM among reproductive-age women in the urban slums of Chandigarh. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, community-based study was conducted among 427 women living in the urban slums of Chandigarh with their youngest child aged between 1 and 2 years using a pre-designed and pre-tested interview schedule. RESULTS: About 38.6% of the participants had heard about LAM, while only 7% of the participants in the study were aware of its contraceptive effect. More than two-third of the participants (69.8%) considered contraceptive use during lactational amenorrhea safe. The majority (95.1%) did not use any contraception during lactational amenorrhea. CONCLUSION: The study revealed insufficient awareness and utilization of LAM among participants, emphasizing the need for improved education and counseling during post-natal care. Training health workers can enhance maternal contraceptive support, promoting both child health and effective contraception.