KNOWLEDGE AND UTILIZATION OF FAMILY PLANNING METHODS BY WOMEN IN DIOBI COMMUNITY GWAGWALADA ABUJA

Egenti N. B., Yalma R. M., Suleiman Z. A. and Adogu POU.*

ABSTRACT

Background: Family Planning (FP) contribute to reductions in fertility, unwanted pregnancies, and maternal death. This study was carried out to assess the knowledge and utilization of FP methods by women in Dobi Community Gwagwalada Abuja. Methodology: A cross-sectional study of women of reproductive age (15-49) in Dobi. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge and utilization of FP methods were collected from the 217 subjects selected by multi-stage sampling technique. Data was analyzed on SPSS version 23 and presented in tables and figures. Chi-square test of significance was applied and p-value set at < 0.05. Results: Findings showed that, 65 (31.1%) of the respondents were aged 16-20 years, 145 (69.4%) were married and 43 (20.6%) had no formal education. Seventy two (72.7%) had good knowledge of family planning methods; the commonest source of information was clinic 134 (64.1%). The most commonly known FP were male condom 167 (79.9%) and injectable 158 (75.6%). A total of 55 (26.3%) respondents used a FP method; the commonest were injectable 42 (20.0%) and implant. Fear of contraceptive side effects 152 (72.8%) and desire for more children 121 (57.9%) were the most frequently given reason for non-use of FP. Age group of respondents. Educational level and source of information were all significantly associated with level of knowledge and utilization of FP methods. Conclusion: Knowledge of Family Planning Methods was high among the women in this study, yet their utilization was poor. Adequate health education, guidance and counselling should be carried out by health workers to dispel fears and encourage higher contraceptive use among women of child bearing age.

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