| Popis: |
In Iceland there has been a steady decrease in the annual birthrate, presently 16-17, since 1964. Decrease in the birthrate after 1964 coincided with the introduction of oral contraceptives (OCs) and IUDs in 1961-1963. OC use has increased markedly. Within a few years of its introduction, over 40% of the women in Iceland were OC users. Recently, there has been a slight decline in OC use, particularly among women aged over 35 years. Insertion of IUDs began on a small scale in 1963. Currently, over 30% of the women in Iceland use IUDs. Diaphragms, spermicides and condoms have been available for decades and continue to be in common use throughout Iceland. Information regarding contraception has been easily available, and this appears to explain the rather low abortion rate. In 1975 parliament passed new legislation on abortion and sterilization. The incidence of induced abortion was at that time about 5% of total deliveries. The 5-year period since 1976 shows a steady increase in the number of abortions to about 10% of total deliveries. The number of women aged over 30, and particularly over 35 years, seeking sterilization has increased every year since 1975. |
