Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Utilization of Long-Acting Contraceptive Methods and Predictors of Utilization among Reproductive Age Group Women in Addis Ababa Public Health Centers, Ethiopia.

Abstract

Long-acting contraceptives (LACs) such as intrauterine devices and hormonal implants are among the most effective methods that prevent unintended pregnancies. The methods are more convenient to clients who want to space or limit their births. But, their utilization is still very low and there is no strong evidence about the factors contributed to the low utilization level.

The present study was undertaken to assess the utilization of LAC methods and associated factors among women of reproductive age groups at public health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

A facility-based cross-sectional study that employed exit interviews was conducted among reproductive age group mothers in five public health centers of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from March 11 2014 to April 4, 2014. Systematic sampling technique was used to select 447 study participants. Pretested structured Amharic version questionnaire was used to collect the data. Both bivariate and multiple logistic regressions models were used to identify the associated factors related to utilization of LAC methods.

Among the 447 respondents, 162 (36.4%), 188 (42.1%), and 96 (21.5%) participants had high, moderate and low level of knowledge about the importance and side effects of LAC methods, respectively. Only 216 (48.3%) and 340 (76.1%) participants had negative attitude and not utilizing LAC methods, respectively. Women who discussed with their partners (AOR=2.15, 95% CI: 1.11, 4.19), those who had positive attitude for LAC (AOR=2.24, 95% CI: 1.34, 3.76), previous use of LAC (AOR=6.07, 95% CI: 3.27, 11.26), and lack of desire to have children (AOR=2.09, 95% CI: 1.15, 3.80) were independent predictors which increased the utilization of LAC than their counterparts.

It was concluded that knowledge about LAC was high; in contrary most of the respondents had negative attitude towards the methods and low level of utilization. Providing appropriate counseling, educating by model LAC users and strengthening couple discussion is recommended.

Keywords: Long-acting contraceptives (LACs), utilization, attitude, reproductive age, women

Cite this Article

Nigatu B, Abay M, Addisie M et al. Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Utilization of Long-Acting Contraceptive Methods and Predictors of Utilization among Reproductive Age Group Women in Addis Ababa Public Health Centers, Ethiopia. Research & Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2016; 6(2): 6–11p.