Abstract

Objectives: This study was conducted to identify engaged couples’ knowledge and attitudes about family planning.

Methods: Cross-sectional and descriptive study conducted with 195 engaged couples between July 2013 and June 2014 at a province in Northern Turkey. “Participant Identification Form” and “Family Planning Attitude Scale” was used for data collection.

Results: Less than half of the participating engaged couples (female: 42.6%, male: 38.5%), received information about family planning methods. Males knew fewer (3.91±2.73) contraceptive methods than females (4.57±2.95). The method most familiar to females was the birth control pill whereas males were most familiar with condoms. As compared to males, females were found to have a more positive attitude towards family planning (p<0.05). The characteristics that were identified as affecting engaged people’s attitudes towards family planning included education level, satisfaction with their existing family planning information, and intention to use contraceptive methods after marriage (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Engaged couples generally have positive attitudes towards family planning. Females have a more positive attitude towards family planning than males.