Abstract
This study assessed some demographic and socio-cultural factors that influence contraceptive uptake among reproductive-aged women in Tamale Metropolis of the Northern Region, Ghana. This was a cross-sectional study conducted from February to March 2015. All three sub Metropolis in Tamale. All community members and women of reproductive age (15-49 years). The study used cluster sampling to recruit women who were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Nine focus group discussions (FGDs) were also held among community members who were purposively selected. contraceptive uptake (use of contraceptive). The mean age of the women was 26 years. The prevalence of contraceptive uptake among reproductive-age women was 36.8% (165/448). Women with secondary school education [AOR=4.4(95%CI:1.6-12.4)], and those in homes where decisions on having children were made by both partners [AOR=2.1(95%CI:1.1-04.42)] were more likely to use contraceptives. Unemployed women [AOR=0.3(95%CI:0.1-0.8)], women whose husbands were unaware of their contraceptive use [AOR=0.4(95%CI:0.2-0.9)] and those having a culture or religion that frowns on contraceptive use [AOR=0.4(95%CI:0.2-0.8)] were less likely to use contraceptive among women in the Tamale Metropolis. The study found a contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) in Tamale Metropolis, Northern Ghana to be 36.8%. Education and living in a home where childbearing decisions are made together were identified as positive factors influencing contraceptive uptake. This work was funded by the authors.
Highlights
Contraceptive promotion and uptake have been noted to play a key role in maternal and child health.[1]
Education and living in a home where childbearing decisions are made together by both spouses were identified as positive factors influencing contraceptive uptake
Unemployment, male partner being unaware of contraceptive use and having a culture or religion that frowns on contraceptive use were identified as negative factors influencing contraceptive uptake
Summary
Contraceptive promotion and uptake have been noted to play a key role in maternal and child health.[1] In countries with high birth rates it has the potential of reducing poverty and hunger and averting 32% of all maternal deaths and nearly 10% of childhood deaths.[1] Contraceptive uptake has a role in the reduction of Total Fertility Rates (TFR).[2] Global fertility rate has been declining steadily from 2.9 in 2010 to 2.8 in 2012, and 2.4 in 2017.3. Many countries in the world including sub-Saharan African countries rely on birth control measures, especially the use of contraceptives as a means to reducing TFR.[5] The government of Ghana in collaboration with Ghana Health Service, Marie Stopes International and other stakeholders involved in the provision of family planning services have put in various strategies and policies to increase uptake of contraceptives. Developed economies have lower fertility rates than developing economies.[4]
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