CONTRACEPTIVE UPTAKE AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN A SEMI URBAN AREA IN JOS SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE, NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Family planning reduces the number of unintended and unwanted pregnancies and thereby saving women from high risk pregnancies and unsafe abortions. Despite the persistent advocacy urging the use of modern contraceptive methods for family planning, the fertility rates in most sub-Saharan African countries still remain unacceptably high mostly due to poor uptake of contraception because of cultural, economic and political barriers. Evidence from the recent Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey indicates that only about 15 percent of sexually active women currently practice effective contraception. The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge of contraceptive and its uptake among women of reproductive age in Gering community in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. METHODS A cross sectional study design was used to assess knowledge and uptake of contraceptive among 400 respondents selected by multi stage sampling technique in Gering community using a semi structured interviewer administered questioner. Information about their knowledge, uptake, methods and factors that determine uptake of contraceptives was obtained. Data was analyzed using Epi Info statistical software and results were presented as tables. Chi square was used to test association between qualitative variables. RESULTS Majority, 362 (90.5%) of the respondents were aware of contraceptives, 200 (55.2%) had used one form of contraceptive or the other. Two common methods of contraceptives used were pills, 184 (34.2%) and injectable 176 (32.8%). Determinants of uptake included: prevention of unintended pregnancies in 136 (53.1%) and to space timing of child birth in 78 (30.5%). Factors found to be associated with contraceptives uptake among women included age, (p=0.000), education (p=0.000) and marital status (p=0.000). CONCLUSION This study showed that despite high awareness about contraceptives, the uptake is relatively low compared to the rates in developed countries. Factors like age, marital and educational status have statistically significant relationship with contraceptive uptake. There is a strong need to encourage continuing female education to enhance awareness on contraceptives and their benefits in reproductive health.