title: Knowledge and beliefs about reproductive anatomy and physiology among Mexican-Origin women in the USA: implications for effective oral contraceptive use.
abstract: Inherent in many reproductive health and family planning programmes is the problematic assumption that the body, its processes and modifications to it are universally experienced in the same way. This paper addresses contraceptive knowledge and beliefs among Mexican-origin women, based upon data gathered by the qualitative component of the Border Contraceptive Access Study. Open-ended interviews explored the perceived mechanism of action of the pill, side-effects, non-contraceptive benefits, and general knowledge of contraception. Findings revealed complex connections between traditional and scientific information. The use of medical terms (e.g. 'hormone') illustrated attempts to integrate new information with existing knowledge and belief systems. Conclusions address concerns that existing information and services may not be sufficient if population-specific knowledge and beliefs are not assessed and addressed. Findings can contribute to the development of effective education, screening and reproductive health services.
authors: College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, USA. mshedlin@nyu.edu
authors: Michele
authors: M
authors: Shedlin
authors: Jon
authors: J
authors: Amastae
authors: Joseph E
authors: JE
authors: Potter
authors: Kristine
authors: K
authors: Hopkins
authors: Daniel
authors: D
authors: Grossman
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003267:Contraception; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005193:Family Planning Services / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice / Q000208:ethnology*; D006801:Humans; D017058:Mexican Americans; D036301:Qualitative Research; D060728:Reproductive Health; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D003276:Contraceptives, Oral