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pubmed:otherAbstract |
PIP: It was suggested at a meeting in 1967 on the behavioral sciences and family planning programs that social scientists should be involved in the design of new contraceptives. The Center of Population Research and the Population Council held a 2-day workshop in August 1969 to develop a more rational approach to the design of new contraceptives by working out the specifications for the variety of methods suitable for use by different population groups. The potential impact of improved contraception is great. According to the 1965 National Fertility Survey, 20% of all births occurring between 1960-1965 were unwanted. If 3/4 of these births were averted, a reduction of 15% in the number of births in 1960-1965 would have taken place. Characteristics of contraceptives are numerous, and it is recommended that the goal should be a variety of methods that would be useful under differing circumstances. In the development of new methods of contraception, it is acceptability, even more than effectiveness, that investigators are trying to improve. There are a number of social and psychological factors affecting acceptability. The kinds of contraceptives considered acceptable may differ at various stages of family growth. Contraceptives must be dependable, acceptable, harmless, simple, and cheap. In making observations and suggestions for research, it was noted that the development of an ideal contraceptive that is universally preferred is unlikely. Research should aim toward an improved contraceptive system or technology--a variety of methods rather than a single best method.
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