Contraceptive prevalence in Cambodia is relatively low, while maternal mortality,
newborn mortality, and projected rates of abortion are high. Fears of side effects and
health concerns appear to be the leading reasons for non-use of modern contraceptive
methods. Data on contraceptive side effects was collected through a longitudinal study of
women using oral contraception in rural Cambodia. Physical and perceived side effects
were reported. One of the side effects reported, hot flashes, is not well documented. A
perceived side effect which caused immediate discontinuation was that combined oral
contraceptives cause fever and diarrhea in breastfed children. More common side effectswere well tolerated. An opportunity exists to increase demand for contraception in
Cambodia; understanding and addressing specific side effects which are particularly
bothersome or which cause discontinuation, such as hot flashes, is an important step to
improving the demand for contraception among women and families. This study sought
to gather data on the specific side effects women were concerned about in order to find
solutions which might encourage use and continuation.