CONTRACEPTIVE USE:A GROUNDED THEORY STUDY

Objective: to attempt to generate a conceptual model of contraceptive use through grounded theory methods. methods: the research study was conducted through the grounded theory design. interviews with 13 women and 11 men, field notes, and memos were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. the formulation of data was realized through individual,semi-structured interviews voice­ recorded in 16 months between 2010and 2012.results: a three-stage process was defined with the core categories that describe the process of contraceptive use among women and men, namely decision-making, using and continuing use. decision-making on contraceptive use is associated with the will of individuals to prevent pregnancy, relationship dynamics, the identification of the most appropriate method and the prominent belief system. behaviors of contraceptive use are determined through the meaning attributed by the individual to the method concerned, the perception of satisfaction with the method and its side effects. continuing of contraceptive use is explained by the intention to continue with the method and disuse-change factors in the core category.conclusion: each stage of the process model developed as a result of the research study is influenced by a complex structure. the new model had a positive impact on the contraceptive use and consultant services of primary health nurses.