Knowledge of contraceptive methods among deaf women: a qualitative study

To analyse the understanding of deaf women regarding contraceptive methods. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study in two referral centres for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in São Paulo, Brazil, trough years 2020–2022. Twenty-eight deaf women who use Brazilian Sign Language (LIBRAS) were interviewed face-to-face and remotely via videocall using a semi-structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic and clinical data and questions about understanding and knowledge of contraceptive methods. We performed a content analysis through transcription, interpretation, and validation of the LIBRAS translation with the assistance of NVivo software. Communication barrier (28/28) was the primary factor associated with low knowledge about contraceptive methods. Regarding barrier methods, 20 (71%) participants reported be familiar with condoms, 13 (46%) with diaphragms, 20 (71%) about oral contraceptives, and 17 (60%) about injectable methods. Concerning long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), 16 (57%) were aware about intrauterine devices and 7 (25%) with subdermal implants. Fifteen (53%) of participants were aware about female and male permanent contraception. Unplanned pregnancy rate was 59% and use of fertility awareness methods was reported by 6 (21%), barrier methods 5 (17%), short-acting methods 6 (21%), LARC 2 (7%) and permanent contraception among 4 (14%). In our sample of deaf women, condoms and oral contraceptives were identified more often and were more in use. All interviewed deaf women cited communication as a barrier to accessing information about contraceptive methods, highlighting the low knowledge and use of LARC. Communication barrier was the main factor pointed out by the deaf participant women, associated with low awareness and a low usage rate of more effective contraceptives. Our data is important for the development of health policies aimed at creating new reproductive counselling techniques for deaf women.