Korean J Clin Pharm.  2019 Mar;29(1):33-44. 10.24304/kjcp.2019.29.1.33.

The Awareness of Contraception and Experience of Oral Contraceptives among North Korean Defector Women in Republic of Korea

• Han S
• Kim KJ
• Bang JS

• KMID: 2446873
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.24304/kjcp.2019.29.1.33

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
This study attempts to gauge the necessity of contraceptive education for women defecting from North Korea (NKDWs).
METHODS
We conducted in-depth interviews with six NKDWs who had lived in the Republic of Korea (ROK) for more than three years, to understand the subjects' perceptions, experiences, and opinions regarding contraception. Thematic analyses were performed using qualitative data provided in the survey results.
RESULTS
Before their defections from North Korea, none of the NKDWs had received any sex education. Loop is the only contraceptive method available to married women in ROK. After defection, NKDWs were provided information about contraceptive options available in China, but they could not fully understand this information. Furthermore, the information they received was not accurate. Thus, NKDWs had a high need for contraceptive sex education. As per our survey, their preferred education method was at least 3 lessons plus 1 : 1 counseling, as necessary.
CONCLUSION
This study indicates that a necessity exists for development of a sex education program for NKDWs to enhance their contraceptive knowledge. Thus, government and health managers have a role to play in developing such a program.

Keyword

North Korean defecting women; awareness of contraception; oral contraceptives; women's health

MeSH Terms

China
Contraception*
Contraceptives, Oral*
Counseling
Democratic People's Republic of Korea
Education
Female
Humans
Methods
Republic of Korea*
Sex Education
Women's Health
Contraceptives, Oral