Contraceptive Conversations: Exploring Awareness, Beliefs, and Stigma around Contraception in Urban India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66838/J.Carcinog.25.1.431-434Keywords:
Contraception, Awareness, Urban India, Stigma, Hpv, Cervical Cancer, Oral Contraceptive Pill, Cancer Risk, Condom Use, Knowledge Gaps, Sexual Health, Family PlanningAbstract
Background: Despite improved access to contraceptive methods in urban India, widespread misinformation, social stigma, and limited education continue to restrict their effective use. Critically, poor contraceptive knowledge has direct implications beyond reproductive health — low condom uses increases exposure to oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV), while gaps in knowledge around hormonal contraceptives leave users unaware of associated cancer risks. This study aimed to evaluate current knowledge, attitudes, and practices around contraception to identify persisting gaps and their potential carcinogenic implications.
Objectives: To assess awareness, knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and acceptance around contraceptive practices among urban Indians, with a focus on knowledge gaps that may contribute to increased cancer risk through suboptimal contraceptive behaviours.
Methods: A cross-sectional online awareness survey of 240 participants (140 females and 100 males) aged 18 to 50 years was conducted between September and October 2025.
Results: Females showed notably greater openness in discussing contraception than males. The male condom was the most recognised and used method, yet awareness of its role in HPV and cancer prevention was absent. Awareness of IUDs and implants was poor. Over 50% lacked knowledge on the correct use of oral contraceptive pills, including unawareness of associated cancer risk profiles. 30% believed contraceptives adversely affect fertility or sexual function. 75% equated emergency contraception with abortion. 80% found sex education inadequate and 70% had not received contraceptive counselling from a healthcare professional — counselling that would typically include cancer risk information. Over 50% expressed a need for a dedicated contraceptive helpline.
Conclusion: Knowledge gaps, societal myths, and stigma continue to hinder the widespread acceptance and correct use of contraceptives in urban India. Addressing misinformation through comprehensive sex education, proactive healthcare counselling, and community-based awareness initiatives is crucial to promoting informed, appropriate, and stigma-free practices.
