Knowledge and Utilization of Modern Contraceptive Methods Among Antenatal Care Attendees at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, Benue State
Keywords:
Antenatal Care Attendees, Knowledge, Modern contraceptives, UtilizationAbstract
Modern contraceptive usage can impact reproductive health outcomes in women. However, utilization depends on their knowledge, attitude and access to affordable services. This study was aimed at determining knowledge, utilization and factors affecting the utilization of modern contraceptive methods among Antenatal care attendees at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study amongst 105 participants. Findings of the study indicated that out of 105 respondents, 60 (63.0%) were knowledgeable on modern methods of contraceptives. The commonest used methods were; oral pills 72 (75.6%), implants 69 (72.5%), Condoms 68 (71.5%), IUCD 40 (42.0%), and injectables 30 (31.6%). Factors affecting utilization included; Cultural hindrances 68 (71.4%), religious restrictions, 57 (59.9%), myth of promoting promiscuity 59 (62.0%), low educational status 61 (64.1%), non-affordability 62 (65.1%), distance from health facilities 54 (56.7%), inability to decide 57 (59.9%), fear of side effects 62 (65.1%) and partner's opposition 53 (55.7%). The study concluded that knowledge of modern contraceptive methods was high and utilization was also fair except for IUCD and injectables. The under-utilization of these services was largely due to socio-cultural and socioeconomic factors which can be overcome by the active support of various stakeholders.
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