Contraceptive Use an Evolving Challenge; Perception and Misconception among Women of Reproductive Age at University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Contraceptive is a component of family planning which enables individuals to achieve a desired number of pregnancies by controlling the spacing and timing of conception This improves the general wellbeing of women and children. Objective: This study aimed to determine the use, perception and misconception of contraceptives among women of reproductive age at University of Nigeria Nsukka. Methodology: Descriptive cross sectional study using pretested, interviewer administered questionnaire was employed. Simple random sampling technique was used to select a representative sample of 350 women aged 15-49 years. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 was used for Data analysis. Chi square test and Binary logistic regression were used. The level of significance was p < 0.05. Results: Majority of the participants (94.1%) had some knowledge on contraceptives. The prevalence of contraceptive use was 35.5%. Overall positive perception on contraceptives was 83.3% although 22.6% believed that contraceptives are for women alone. Overall misconception was 69.3%. About 43.3% believed that contraceptives are harmful to the womb, 46.9% agreed that contraceptives can render one infertile. Male condom at 16.3% followed by pill at 15.4% were most commonly used form of contraceptives while Pharmacy shops were commonest source at 65.5%. Religion was identified as predictor of misconceptions of contraceptives. Conclusion: There was good knowledge but poor use of contraceptives in the population. Effect of myths and negative perceptions surrounding the use of contraceptives was observed, hence, the need for contraceptive education and enlightenment programs in this community.