IMPACT OF FAMILY WELFARE SERVICES IN A RURAL AREA OF CENTRAL KERALA, INDIA

Family planning was considered the centre of our national development since 1952 and India is the first country in the world to launch National Programme for Family Planning for the same. Objectives: To find the impact of family welfare services in Arpookara panchayat in Kerala and to find the prevalence and factors associated with the acceptance of contraception. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was done among 650 eligible couples selected by Purposive sampling in Arpookara panchayat of Kottayam in Kerala, India. Data were coded and analysed using SPSSv20.0. Results: 2.76% (18/650) of the study participants used any type of contraception to delay the first pregnancy. Only 2.8% accepted vasectomy. Hindu religion and nuclear family were found as independent predictors for accepting contraception. Conclusion: Social factors of a couple do have an impact on family welfare indicators. Family planning in men should be encouraged with proper IEC activities.