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Clients need to know:
- chance of getting pregnant while using different
methods
- that their ability to use method correctly may determine
effectiveness
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Clients need to know the effectiveness of methods to understand
their chances of unintended pregnancy with each of the contraceptive
options. In focus group discussions with nearly 600 low-income
women in seven countries, effectiveness was the principal reason
for choosing a method.
Clients also need to understand that their ability to use some
methods consistently and correctly will determine effectiveness.
For example, oral contraceptives are very effective if taken
every day, but not as effective if the client misses pills.
Client behavior does not affect the effectiveness of some methods,
such as Norplant and sterilization.
Providers should help clients consider whether they will be
able to use a method consistently and correctly. If a woman
is not sure she will remember to take a pill every day, for
example, other methods may prove to be more effective.
Also, clients need to weigh effectiveness against other factors
such as side effects, ease of use, cost, partner preference
and how they would feel if pregnancy occurs.
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