Contraception use among refugee and internally displaced women in Nigeria: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Nigeria, which has a large population of displaced women, lacks a current review of literature on the use of modern contraception in this group. This scoping review study aimed to map the literature on contraception use among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) living in refugee and IDP camps in Nigeria in the last five years. Methods: A literature search was conducted for full-text peer-reviewed original research articles published in English, which included women of reproductive age in refugee and internally displaced camps over the last five years. The literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and grey literature. Results: Four studies that met the eligibility criteria were selected for the review- one survey, two qualitative studies, and a mixed-methods study. Findings suggest the prevalence of knowledge of modern contraception was reported as 34%, while knowledge of sources of contraception was reported at 24% and 12%. The use of modern contraception was reported at 9% and 21.8%. Underutilization of contraceptives is related to poor knowledge, poor access to health facilities and contraceptives, and misconceptions about contraception. Discussion: The prevalence of knowledge and utilization of modern contraception was low due to factors such as poverty and lack of resources, poor decision-making, and child marriage. Condoms were the most used form of contraception due to their dual purpose. As well, the lack of knowledge about contraception sources was a significant barrier to access. Conclusion: The underutilization of contraception reported calls for health intervention through the provision of health infrastructure including contraceptives for displaced women in Nigeria. More research is recommended on the displaced women in Nigeria.