Family planning in Brazil today: An analysis of recent research

Abstract

This two-component study (descriptive cross-sectional and qualitative) assessed the availability of contraceptives in primary care clinics in Brazilian municipalities. The family planning program was also analyzed as part of the country's Family Health Strategy. Phone interviews were held with local health managers to obtain information on contraceptive supply in a selected sample of municipalities. Four municipalities were selected and visited for the qualitative analysis, using direct observation and semi-structured interviews with health professionals and managers. Descriptive statistical and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. Content analysis technique was used for qualitative data. According to the results, family planning activities are often not integrated with other health activities. Health professionals and managers failed to understand family planning as part of primary health care and felt unable to assist patients. Family planning in Brazil is marked by the unavailability of contraceptives in public health programs.