Contraceptive Prevalence, Pattern and Socio-demographic Determinants among In- Union Women of Reproductive Age (15-49 years) in Semi-urban Communities of Orlu town, Imo state, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The use of contraceptives is very important in controlling high and unsustainable population growth thereby reducing its attendant problems of poor national economy and health outcomes of women and children.
 Methodology: The study was a community based cross-sectional study carried out among 600 in-union women of reproductive age living in suburban communities in Orlu, Imo State, Nigeria. They were selected using multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured and interviewer administered questionnaire and was analyzed using EPI-INFO version 3.2.1. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and regression analysis were performed where necessary. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.
 Result: Contraceptive ever used and current use was 66.7% and 36.7% respectively. The commonest modern contraceptive type ever used and currently used was the oral Contraceptive pill (65% vs. 22.8%). Socio-demographic and economic factors found to influence contraceptive use among the women were; age of women (p=0.002), status of union(p˂0.0001), age at union (p = 0.043), duration of union (p = 0.002), level of education of women (p ˂ 0.0001), religion of women (p ˂ 0.0001), family size (p ˂ 0.0001), number of male children (p ˂ 0.0001), monthly income (p ˂ 0.0001) and previous use of contraceptives (p ˂ 0.0001).
 Conclusion: The use of contraceptive was low and the commonest reason for non-use was due to religious beliefs. Most of the factors influencing use can be modified by appropriate intervention programs. Thus there is need to institute intervention programs by relevant authorities of the state that can help increase contraceptive use among these women.
 Keywords: Contraceptive use, prevalence, pattern, socio-demographic, determinants, Orlu, Imo State.