Optimizing the Knowledge of Couples of Reproductive Age on Contraceptive Methods through Family Planning Health Education at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Polyclinic of RS PKU ‘Aisyiyah Boyolali

Optimalisasi Pengetahuan Pasangan Usia Subur mengenai Metode Kontrasepsi melalui Pendidikan Kesehatan Keluarga Berencana di Poliklinik Obgyn RS PKU 'Aisyiyah Boyolali

Abstract

ABSTRACT This Community Service (PKM) activity was motivated by the relatively low level of knowledge among couples of reproductive age (PUS) regarding contraceptive methods at the Obstetrics and Gynecology (Obgyn) Polyclinic of RS PKU ‘Aisyiyah Boyolali. Limited understanding of the types, benefits, mechanisms of action, advantages and disadvantages, and side effects of contraceptive methods, coupled with prevalent myths in the community, may affect the appropriateness of contraceptive method selection, particularly long-term contraceptive methods. This activity aimed to improve the knowledge of couples of reproductive age regarding contraceptive methods so that they could select methods appropriate to their needs and health conditions. The methods used included family planning health education through interactive lectures, discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and the use of leaflets. The activity was conducted in three stages: preparation, consisting of coordination with partners and development of educational materials; implementation, consisting of an oral pre-test, a 10-minute interactive health education session, and an oral post-test; and evaluation. The educational materials covered types of contraceptive methods, their benefits, advantages and disadvantages, indications, and side effects. Evaluation was conducted quantitatively by comparing pre-test and post-test scores. The activity was considered successful if at least 80% of participants were able to correctly answer evaluation questions regarding the types, advantages, and side effects of long-term contraceptive methods. The outcomes of the activity included improved knowledge among couples of reproductive age and the availability of educational leaflets that can be used as an information resource for patients at the Obgyn Polyclinic.

Background: Penggunaan metode kontrasepsi yang tepat merupakan bagian penting dalam perencanaan keluarga dan kesehatan reproduksi pasangan usia subur (PUS). Namun, keterbatasan pengetahuan mengenai jenis, manfaat, kelebihan dan kekurangan, serta efek samping kontrasepsi, termasuk kontrasepsi jangka panjang, masih menjadi salah satu hambatan dalam pemilihan metode kontrasepsi yang sesuai. Selain itu, adanya mitos dan informasi yang kurang tepat di masyarakat dapat memengaruhi pengambilan keputusan PUS. Kegiatan ini bertujuan meningkatkan pengetahuan PUS mengenai metode kontrasepsi melalui pendidikan kesehatan keluarga berencana di Poliklinik Obgyn RS PKU ‘Aisyiyah Boyolali.

Methods : The appropriate use of contraceptive methods is an important component of family planning and reproductive health among couples of reproductive age. However, limited knowledge regarding the types, benefits, advantages and disadvantages, and side effects of contraceptive methods, including long-term contraceptive methods, remains one of the barriers to selecting an appropriate contraceptive method. In addition, myths and inaccurate information circulating in the community may influence decision-making among couples of reproductive age. This activity aimed to improve the knowledge of couples of reproductive age regarding contraceptive methods through family planning health education at the Obstetrics and Gynecology (Obgyn) Polyclinic of RS PKU ‘Aisyiyah Boyolali.

Results : The evaluation results showed an improvement in the knowledge of couples of reproductive age (PUS) following the health education intervention. The improvement in knowledge was demonstrated by comparing the oral pre-test and post-test scores. At least 80% of participants were able to correctly answer questions regarding the types, advantages, and side effects of long-term contraceptive methods. These findings indicate that family planning health education was effective in improving the knowledge of couples of reproductive age regarding the selection of appropriate contraceptive methods.

Conclusion : Family planning health education through interactive lectures, discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and the use of leaflets can improve the knowledge of couples of reproductive age regarding contraceptive methods, particularly long-term contraceptive methods. This activity can serve as a promotive effort to help couples of reproductive age understand and select contraceptive methods that are appropriate to their needs and health conditions. Continuous contraceptive education in healthcare facilities is recommended to enhance understanding and support appropriate contraceptive decision-making.