[Changes occurred in concepts related to contraception during the 1966-1971 period; survey among multiparae of Sorocaba - Sao Paulo]

The contraceptive methods used in 1966 (78 cases) and in 1971 (250 cases) by multiparae with 5 or more pregnancies in Sorocaba Sao Paulo Brazil were studied. The survey showed very little change in the percentage of women using contraceptive methods (from 33.3 to 34.4% respectively). Approximately 10% more women stated that they had used some method by 1971 but had abandoned it. The percentage of women who had never used any method declined from 56.4 to 44.0%. Among the methods used there was a great increase in the use of oral contraceptives (from 19.2 to 60.4%) while coitus interruptus the most important method in 1966 (46.1%) declined but was still in 2nd place in 1971 (30.2%). There was a positive correlation between use of contraceptives and educational level and per capita income. It is concluded that in view of the still limited and practically unchanged percentage of the population using contraceptives further efforts are needed to provide adequate education in this area to a greater number of women.(Authors modified)