Knowledge of contraception and contraceptive choices among human immunodeficiency virus-positive women attending antiretroviral clinics in Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Once human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive women become aware of their status, many demonstrate a reduced desire for pregnancy, particularly because most of them know that there are risks involved in delivering an HIV-positive child. Others, on the other hand, want to have children despite their HIV-positive status. These women have reproductive needs that should be respected and attended to. This study assessed the knowledge of contraception and contraceptive choices among HIV-positive women of reproductive age (15-49 years) attending antiretroviral clinics in Zaria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on 340 HIV-seropositive women of reproductive age group in January 2015 using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected via structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 and results were presented in tables and charts. Statistical significance was at P = 0.005. Results: The modal age group of the respondents was 20-29 years (44.7%) with mean age of 24.5 ± 8.4 years, 45% were Hausa, 59.4% Muslim, and 57.4% married. The majority (32%) had secondary education and of different occupation. About 87% had knowledge of HIV transmission from infected mother to child and 73.8% had heard of contraception. Prevalence of past contraceptive usage among these women was 56.1%, of which male condom was the most commonly used contraceptive (60.4%), either alone or dual contraception. This was followed by injectables (52%) and oral pills (35%). However, the current contraceptive use among the respondents was 36.3%. There was statistical relationship between age and educational level of the respondents and contraceptive use. Conclusion: The study has demonstrated that majority of these HIV-positive women had good knowledge about contraception but they do not apply this knowledge they have toward using an appropriate family planning method. Hence, there is a need for proper counseling and education of these women and their spouses by the health workers as they attend the antiretroviral clinic to erase fear and misconceptions of modern contraception. Male involvement will also go a long way in promoting contraceptive utilization.