A survey was undertaken to assess the quality of contraceptive services provided to women delivering in a District General Hospital. Separate questionnaires were given to the women and the midwives giving the contraceptive advice. Response rate of the survey was 87%. Thirty eight per cent of women reported having some discussion on contraception during antenatal period. All the women had received contraceptive advises during the postpartum period. Eighty one per cent of women felt that sufficient information and enough time was given to discuss contraception. However analysis of questionnaires indicated that most received information only on short-term contraceptive methods. Out of 64 midwives surveyed, 52 had attended a family planning course. However 37 of them had attended the course at least 3 years earlier. Thirty eight midwives felt that they have adequate knowledge to give advice but all of them reported that they should receive further training.

There should be provision for comprehensive discussion regarding contraceptive options during both antenatal and postpartum periods. Midwives require regular training in family planning.