Objective: To analyse the psycho-social profile of women using hormonal contraceptives (HCC), the intrauterine device (IUD) and the diaphragm; and to evaluate their tolerance to these methods.
Design: A prospective observation study.
Setting: The basic unit of family planning at an urban health centre.
Patients and other participants: 503 patients, for whom contraception was provided between january and may 1992, with a clinical follow-up throughout the year.
Measurements and main results: HCC were administered to 285 women, with an average age of 24.8# 4.38 years. Secondary effects were detected in 14.73% of cases, with good metabolic tolerance. The IUD was provided to 216 users, with an average age of 35.4#-6.39. There was acceptable tolerance, with it being withdrawn in 18 cases, mainly due to spontaneous shedding. There were only two diaphragm users during the study period; and these had good tolerance.
Conclusions: HCC were the contraceptive method chosen most often by younger women. The high tolerance to these methods and easy out-patient control of them make Primary Care, in coordination with other professionals, the ideal level for their prescription. User profiles approach the ideal recommended in the bibliography consulted.