Tribal communities often face socio-cultural barriers in accessing reproductive healthcare services, particularly modern contraceptive methods. Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding contraception among women in these communities is critical for developing effective family planning interventions. This study was undertaken to assess the KAP regarding contraceptive methods among reproductive-age women in a tribal community in a Sambalpur district present in western part of Odisha. The findings aim to inform targeted interventions to increase awareness and acceptance of contraception in similar underprivileged populations. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional and descriptive study conducted among 785 women aged 15–49 years in a tribal-dominated blocks of Sambalpur district November 2022 to December 2023. The region comprises primarily rural and remote areas with limited access to healthcare services. The study focused on assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) related to contraceptive methods among women of reproductive age residing in tribal communities. A structured questionnaire assessed their knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results:Out of 785 women interviewed, the majority (44%) were aged 25–35 years, with 68.9% being unemployed and 93.2% belonging to lower socio-economic status. Awareness about contraceptive methods was reported by 86% of participants. Among those aware (n=675), the most commonly known methods were oral pills (68%) and condoms (66%). However, only 61.1% had ever used contraception and just 23.8% were current users, with condoms (53.6%) and oral pills (31.1%) being the most used. Fear of side effects (51.4%) and partner opposition (20.6%) were major reasons for non-use. Statistically significant associations were found between knowledge/practice and factors such as age, education, occupation, religion, marital status, and number of children (p < 0.05). Conclusion:Though awareness is relatively high, the gap between knowledge and practice remains due to cultural, educational, and accessibility challenges. Tailored health education and community engagement are essential to improve uptake.
Panda et al. (Tue,) studied this question.