Factors Influencing the Utilization of Family Planning in Ishaka District, Western Uganda

Abstract

This study was conducted on factor influencing the utilization of family planning in Ishaka community, Western Uganda. The study aims to look at various factors that influence the use of family method, in Ishaka town. The data were collected using questionnaires developed by the researcher, through descriptive field survey approach. The population of the study were women of reproductive age 15 to 49 years. A sample of 120 respondents, with 30 respondents equally drawn from four designated directions of the city at A, B, C, and D, applying random sampling technique. The collected data was analyzed using frequency distribution tables, simple percentages and Chi-square test to determine the relationships between the categorical variables, at significance level of P-values at ≤0.05. The study revealed that high level knowledge of family planning, did not translate to high contraceptive use. It also shows that men need to be involved in the conduct of family planning; and also, demonstrate a positive relationship between husband/partner on family planning practice and discussion. Furthermore, the chi square test of the respondent’s educational level was found to be highly significance with a X2 Value of 27.734 @ 0.000* with P-values set at ≤0.05. Therefore, religious and traditional leaders should be involved in educating and encouraging their members on the significance of family planning. Further research should be conducted in different locations of the region to bridge the gap between the modern knowledge of family planning and its traditional practice.