Problems and prospects of contraception

• Published in: The European journal of contraception & reproductive health care 2012-06, Vol.17, p.S159
• Main Author: Prilepskaya, VN
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Abortion; Birth control; Fertility; Pregnancy; Reproductive health
• ISSN: 1362-5187; 1473-0782

Abortion still occupies a leading position in fertility regulation in the Russian Federation -- the abortion rate is on average 2.1 per woman for life. In 2009, there were registered 1.7 million deliveries and more than 1.2 million abortions. According to the Russian Ministry of Health, 68% of all abortions were performed before 12 weeks of pregnancy, and 24% before seven weeks of pregnancy. The majority of abortions are carried out in the age group 20-34 years; 10% of abortions were performed in women younger than 20 years,and 20% in women aged 35 years and older. The incidence of long-term complications after abortion is very high - endometriosis, infertility, menstrual irregularities, etc. Despite the high incidence of abortions in Russia, since 1990 to the present, their number has significantly declined in many clinics where medical abortion is carried out and causes less sequelae. The main condition for reducing the number of abortions is a rational contraception; unfortunately, in Russia it is used less than in other developed countries This is due to the myths about the dangers of hormones ingrained in women's and doctors' minds, as well as the lack of motivation in public opinion to prevent unplanned pregnancy. Currently, Russia has a full range of hormonal and non-hormonal methods to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Despite the increase in the number of women using modern contraceptive methods - according to the Russian Ministry of Health (2009) 13.4% of women used hormonal contraception, an IUD -14.3% of women of childbearing age (in 1992 -2.1%, 15%). The research data in Russia showed that only 9% of women consider themselves to be fully informed about contraceptive methods. The main goal is to carry out educational work among physicians and the public on issues of contraception and family planning, the expansion of counselling that in the future will help to reduce the number of abortions and preserve women's reproductive health. The next step is Russia's active participation in international projects for reducing abortions and the increasing use of contraception, as well as the introduction of new contraceptives. Thus, prevention of abortion and the introduction of contraception remains a major challenge for obstetric and gynaecological services, health authorities and public organisations in Russia. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]