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Allotey NK, Bosoka SA. Demographic, Sociocultural, and Behavioral Predictors of Modern Contraceptive Uptake Among Couples in Northern Ghana. Open Access J Contracept 2024; 15:23-40. [PMID: 38495450 PMCID: PMC10941790 DOI: 10.2147/oajc.s430288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Despite efforts to increase modern contraceptive use in Ghana, prevalence rates remain low; particularly in Northern Ghana. This study, therefore, sought to determine the predictors of modern contraceptive use among couples in Northern Ghana. This research was the baseline assessment for a broader study aimed at determining the effect of an intervention to improve outcomes of modern contraception. Methods The study was a cross-sectional design. Data was collected from 508 couples (1016 participants), using a multistage sampling technique; both members of each couple were interviewed separately. Univariate and stepwise multivariate logistic regression were used to identify predictors associated with modern contraceptive use. Qualitative data were analyzed to triangulate the findings from the quantitative data. Results More than 97% of couples were Muslims. Qualitative data indicates that Muslims are less inclined to use Modern Contraceptives. Most participants had no education. The regression model shows that all demographic characteristics were not significant in Model 3 for men. Socio-culturally, men who gave the reason of "unconcerned" for men's non-involvement in contraceptive adoption, had less odds of using modern contraception (AOR=0.19). Men with high subjective norms were more than 15 times more likely to use modern contraception. Female farmers were less likely to use contraceptives (AOR= 0.45). Women who reported that "nothing prevented men" from getting involved in contraceptive adoption had greater odds of adopting modern contraception (AOR= 11.15). Women with good perceived behavioral control were more likely to use modern contraception (AOR=5.03). Women with high enacted stigma and men and women with high interspousal communication were more likely to adopt modern contraception. Conclusion Taking cognizance of demographic and sociocultural characteristics and behavioral constructs is needed when determining the predictors of modern contraceptive use among couples in Northern Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naa-Korkor Allotey
- Ethics and Research Management Department, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel Adolf Bosoka
- Disease Surveillance Unit, Volta Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Ho, Ghana
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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Nguyen TTX, Nguyen TTQ, Le LH, Dinh DX. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward emergency contraceptive pills among community pharmacists and pharmacy customers: A cross-sectional study in urban Vietnam. Contraception 2023; 128:110275. [PMID: 37657599 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2023.110275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate Vietnamese community pharmacists and pharmacy customers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices about emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs). STUDY DESIGN We recruited 400 pharmacists and 396 customers via a nonprobability convenience sampling technique. We used univariate and multivariate linear regression models to determine factors associated with the knowledge and attitudes toward ECPs among pharmacists and customers. We selected variables in the multivariate models through the Bayesian Model Averaging method using R software (version 4.2.3). RESULTS In medicine outlets, levonorgestrel and mifepristone (ECPs) were highly available. The average knowledge scores on ECPs among pharmacists and customers were 9.98 ± 2.00 and 6.24 ± 2.33, respectively. Many pharmacists did not have adequate knowledge of ECPs' mechanism of action, dosage, and contraindications. Customers lacked knowledge about their legislation, effectiveness, and side effects. The attitudes toward ECPs among participants were relatively positive. Reliable information sources about ECPs (such as the package leaflet, courses, and books) played an essential role in increasing ECP knowledge and attitudes (p < 0.001). The availability of ECPs (p < 0.001), being educated (p < 0.01 and 0.01), and daily sales (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with pharmacists' knowledge/attitudes. Age, education level, marital status, and occupation were significantly associated with customers' knowledge. Participants' knowledge of was significantly associated with their attitude toward ECPs (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The knowledge of ECPs among pharmacists was relatively good, while that of customers was poor. There is a need to have policies and interventions to enhance the knowledge and attitudes toward ECPs for both pharmacists and customers. IMPLICATIONS Community pharmacies are ideal settings to dispense contraceptive methods, especially over-the-counter ECPs. Community pharmacists can help ensure the availability of ECPs in medicine outlets, increase women's access to ECPs, and counsel customers on up-to-date and comprehensive knowledge about these medications, thereby guaranteeing rational ECP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Thi Xuan Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, Da Nang University of Medical Technology and Pharmacy, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Trang Thi Quynh Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, Da Nang University of Medical Technology and Pharmacy, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Ly Huong Le
- Department of Pharmacy, Da Nang University of Medical Technology and Pharmacy, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Dai Xuan Dinh
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Management and Economics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam.
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Belachew TB, Negash WD, Belay DG, Aragaw FM, Asratie MH, Asmamaw DB. Emergency contraceptive knowledge and associated factors among abortion experienced reproductive age women in Ethiopia: a multilevel analysis using EDHS 2016 data. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:775. [PMID: 37946102 PMCID: PMC10634145 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06091-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency contraceptives (EC) are used to avoid unintended pregnancy, hence avoiding its incidence and its effects. In Ethiopia, emergency contraception is commonly accessible, especially in the big cities. However, there is virtually little understanding of or awareness of EC and Ethiopia has a high abortion rate. Therefore this study was aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors for emergency contraceptive knowledge in Ethiopia. METHODS The study was based on secondary data analysis of the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey 2016 data. A total weighted sample of 1236 reproductive age women was included. A multilevel mixed-effect binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify the significant associated factors of emergency contraceptive knowledge. Statistical significance was determined using Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval. RESULTS Overall magnitude of emergency contraceptive knowledge was observed to be 17.19% (95% CI: 15.18, 19.40) with intra-class correlation (ICC) 57% and median odds ratio (MOR) 6.4 in the null model. Women's age 25-34 (AOR = 2.6; 95% CI: 1.2, 5.5), and 35-49 (AOR = 1.5; 95% CI: 1.06, 3.3), secondary and above educational level (AOR = 3.41; 95% CI: 2.19, 4.88), media exposure (AOR = 2.97; 95% CI: 1.56, 5.64), Being in metropolitan region (AOR = 2.68; 95% CI: 1.46, 4.74), and women being in urban area (AOR = 3.19; 95% CI: 1.20, 5.23) were associated with emergency contraceptive knowledge. CONCLUSION Emergency contraceptive knowledge in this study was low. Women age, educational level, media exposure, residency, and region were significantly associated with emergency contraceptive knowledge. Therefore, to enhance understanding and use of ECs in the current Ethiopian setting, it is imperative to ensure exposure to EC information, particularly in rural regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadele Biresaw Belachew
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Wubshet Debebe Negash
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Gashaneh Belay
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Fantu Mamo Aragaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Melaku Hunie Asratie
- Department of Women's and Family health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Desale Bihonegn Asmamaw
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Negash WD, Belachew TB, Asmamaw DB, Bitew DA. Predictors of desire to limit childbearing among reproductive age women in high fertility regions in Ethiopia. A multilevel mixed effect analysis. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1011. [PMID: 37254145 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15952-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high fertility rate can have a number of expensive consequences for developing nations, such as limiting economic growth, adversely impacting women and their children's health, and reducing access to quality education, nutrition, and employment. The problem is more obvious in Ethipia's high fertility regions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess predictors of desire to limit childbearing among reproductive age women in high fertility regions in Ethiopia. METHODS The analysis was based on secondary data using the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. Stata version 14 software was used for analysis. A multi-level mixed-effect logistic regression analysis was fitted. Adjusted Odds Ratio at 95% confidence interval was used to show the strength and direction of the association. Statistical significance was declared at a P- value less than 0.05. RESULTS The overall desire to limit childbearing in high fertility regions in Ethiopia was 37.7% (95% CI: 36.28, 39.17). Age; 25-34 (AOR = 3.74; 95% CI: 2.97, 4.73), 35-49 years (AOR = 14; 95% CI: 10.85, 18.06), women education; Primary education (AOR = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.88), secondary and higher (AOR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.19, 0.43), from the community level variables Oromia National Regional state (AOR = 5.86; 95% CI: 2.82, 12.23), high proportion of community level poverity (AOR = 0.67; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.98), and high proportion of community level media exposure (AOR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.07, 2.19) were statistically significant factors for desire to limit childbearing in high fertility regions of Ethiopia. CONCLUSION Nearly four in ten women had the desire to limit childbearing in high fertility regions in Ethiopia. Thus, to fulfill the women's desire to limit childbearing, Ministry of Health and health facilities are needed to increase financial support strategies and Family planning programs that enable pregnant women from poor households to use health services. In addition, increasing community level media exposure are important interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wubshet Debebe Negash
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Tadele Biresaw Belachew
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Desale Bihonegn Asmamaw
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Desalegn Anmut Bitew
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Factors influencing the use of emergency contraceptives among reproductive age women in the Kwadaso Municipality, Ghana. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264619. [PMID: 35239714 PMCID: PMC8893659 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Unintended pregnancy leads to unsafe abortion, which is one of the commonest causes of maternal deaths in developing countries including Ghana. Lots of unintended pregnancies can be avoided using emergency contraceptives (EC). Emergency contraceptives are mostly used after unprotected sexual intercourse and have a ninety-nine percent chance of preventing unintended pregnancy when taken correctly. However, unlike other modern contraceptives such as condoms, emergency contraceptives cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections. Objectives This study aimed at assessing the factors influencing the use of emergency contraceptives among reproductive-age women in the Kwadaso Municipality, Ghana. Methods A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted in three sub-municipalities of the Kwadaso Municipality. A multistage sampling method was used to select 312 women in their reproductive age within households. A simple random sampling method was first used to select the sub-municipalities (Kwadaso Central, Asuoyeboah, and Agric-Nzema). Participants were selected from households through a systematic sampling procedure and responses were solicited from women who consented to participate in the study. The selection was strictly dependent on the number of eligible women in a household, that is, in an event where more than one woman was found in a household, a simple random sampling method was used to select only one woman from that household. STATA 15.0 was used to analyse the data. Binary logistic regression was used to find the adjusted estimates and associations between EC use and the exposure variables. P-values ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant at 95% Confidence Interval (CI). Results The findings showed that 79.67% of the women had ever used EC. Amongst them, 59.83% used EC following unexpected unprotected sex, and 24.69% used EC following failed coitus interruptus. Women’s attitude towards EC (AOR = 8.52, p<0.001), religion (AOR = 4.56, p = 0.004), and monthly income (AOR = 0.29, p = 0.030) were found to have significant influence on their use of EC. Conclusion The level of EC use among the women was high. Women’s attitude towards EC, religion, and monthly income were the major factors influencing the use of EC. Thus, strategies to promote EC use should emphasize on addressing the attitude of women towards EC through sex education in schools, various religious institutions, and the community at large with the services of health authorities and support from governmental and non-governmental organizations whose focus is to address the need for reproductive health services in order to reduce the misconception regarding the use of EC.
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Tenaw LA. Practice and determinants of emergency contraceptive utilization among women seeking termination of pregnancy in Northwest Ethiopia-A mixed quantitative and qualitative study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263776. [PMID: 35148342 PMCID: PMC8836300 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency contraceptives are used within 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Although emergency contraceptives are widely available in Ethiopia, termination of pregnancy remains a public health problem indicating low uptake of emergency contraceptives after unprotected sexual intercourse. This study aimed to assess utilization and determinants of emergency contraceptives among women seeking termination of pregnancy in Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out, supplemented by phenomenologically approached in-depth interviews. Systematic random sampling was used to select study participants. A structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview guide were used to collect data. Data were entered by EPI-info and analyzed through SPSS version 23 to conduct logistic regressions. Thematic analysis was used to conduct qualitative interpretation. RESULTS Almost one-fifth (78; 19.2%) of the study participants used emergency contraceptives to prevent their index pregnancy. Women who had secondary education (aOR 3.28; 95% CI 1.59, 6.79) and women who had no living children (aOR 4.52; 95% CI 1.40, 14.57) had a positive significant association with emergency contraceptive utilization. On the other hand, women who did not discuss contraceptives with their sexual partner (aOR 0.49; 95% CI 0.27-0.91) and women without a history of abortion (aOR 0.45; 95% CI 0.24-0.97) had a negative significant association with emergency contraceptive utilization. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION There is relatively low utilization of emergency contraception among pregnancy terminating women. Reproductive health programs should encourage women discussion with their partners about emergency contraceptives to decrease occurrence of unwanted pregnancy and termination of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lebeza Alemu Tenaw
- Department of Reproductive Health, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
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Kwame KA, Bain LE, Manu E, Tarkang EE. Use and awareness of emergency contraceptives among women of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. Contracept Reprod Med 2022; 7:1. [PMID: 35039074 PMCID: PMC8762930 DOI: 10.1186/s40834-022-00167-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency contraception (EC) is a method used to avoid pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. Emergency contraceptives can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy by up to over 95% when taken within 72 h of sexual intercourse. EC is helpful to women who have experienced method failure, incorrect use of contraceptives, raped or have consented to unplanned, and unprotected sexual intercourse. We set out to systematically review the current literature on the awareness and usage patterns of ECs among women of reproductive age in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHOD Eight hundred and sixty-seven (867) articles were selected from EMBASE and Google Scholar databases after a search was conducted. Sixty (60) full-text articles were checked for eligibility and 27 articles met our inclusion criteria. Manual data extraction on excel sheets was used to extract the authors' names, year of publication, country, sample size, study type, objectives, awareness levels, and the EC types. FINDINGS Awareness rates ranged from 10.1 to 93.5% (both reported from Ethiopia). The level of use was relatively low (ranging from 0% in DR Congo and Ethiopia to 54.1% in Nigeria). The most used types of EC were Postinor 2 (levonorgestrel), EC pills such as Norlevo (levonorgestrel only) and Nodette (levonorgestrel and estradiol), and intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD). CONCLUSIONS Although variations in use and awareness do exist between countries in SSA according to the year of study, the general level of EC awareness has been on the increase. On the other hand, the level of EC use was lower compared to the level of awareness. Postinor 2 (levonorgestrel-only pills) was reported as the most type used EC. Further, studies could be done to find out the effect of culture, religion and believes on the use of contraceptive methods. It is important to understanding barriers to EC use despite high awareness rates. Emergency Contraceptive awareness and use should be promoted among women of reproductive age in SSA to reduce unwanted pregnancies and their complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luchuo Engelbert Bain
- Lincoln International Institute for Rural Health, LIIRH, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK.
- Global South Health Services and Research, GSHS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Emmanuel Manu
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Elvis Enowbeyang Tarkang
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
- HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Network Cameroon, PO Box 36, Kumba, Cameroon
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Henry EG, Agula C, Agyei-Asabere C, Asuming PO, Bawah AA, Canning D, Shah I. Dynamics of Emergency Contraceptive Use in Accra, Ghana. Stud Fam Plann 2021; 52:105-123. [PMID: 34110017 DOI: 10.1111/sifp.12154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent data suggest increasing rates of emergency contraception (EC) use in Ghana, particularly in urban areas. In 2018, we collected survey data from 3,703 sexually experienced women aged 16-44 years living in low-income settlements of Accra. We estimated the prevalence of lifetime and current EC use. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with current use of EC. Retrospective monthly calendar data on contraceptive use were analyzed to identify patterns of EC use, including repeat and continuous use, and uptake of other contraceptive methods in the months following EC use. Nearly 15 percent of women had ever used EC. About half of recent EC users (52 percent) used EC for at least four months cumulatively within a 12-month window. There was no evidence of adoption of other modern methods in the months after using EC. Our results suggest that EC is a common method for pregnancy prevention in Accra, particularly among young, unmarried, highly educated women. Counseling on effective EC use and strategies that promote equitable access should be prioritized.
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Ahinkorah BO, Hagan JE, Seidu AA, Hormenu T, Otoo JE, Budu E, Schack T. Linking Female Adolescents' Knowledge, Attitudes and Use of Contraceptives to Adolescent Pregnancy in Ghana: A Baseline Data for Developing Sexuality Education Programmes. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9030272. [PMID: 33802398 PMCID: PMC8001720 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9030272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Nearly one out of ten Ghanaian female adolescents aged 15–19 has experienced childbearing in urban settlements compared to twice this number in the rural populations due to unintended pregnancies. This study assessed the linkages between knowledge, attitudes, and use of contraceptives and adolescent pregnancy in one of the highly affected Municipalities (i.e., Komenda-Edina-Eguafo Abrem [KEEA]) in Ghana. (2) Methods: Employing a facility-based sampling method, 378 female adolescents aged 15–19 were selected. Unadjusted odds ratio (uOR) and adjusted odds ratio (aOR) at 95% confidence intervals (CI) and p-values were used for significant variables at p < 0.05. (3) Results: Pregnant adolescents were 2 times more likely to indicate that the procedure of procuring contraceptives is quite uncomfortable (aOR = 2.42, 95% CI = [1.29–4.55]; p = 0.006). Also, pregnant adolescents were 5 times more likely to have ever used traditional contraceptive methods than their non-pregnant counterparts (aOR = 5.02, 95% CI = [2.60–9.71]; p < 0.001). On the contrary, pregnant adolescents had lower odds of indicating that contraceptives are for only married people (aOR = 0.38, 95% CI = [0.20–0.70]; p = 0.002) and that it feels bad to receive contraceptive information from parents and relatives than non-pregnant adolescents (aOR = 0.42, 95% CI = [0.24–0.74]; p = 0.003). Pregnant adolescents were less likely to use modern contraceptives than their non-pregnant adolescents (aOR = 0.18, 95% CI = [0.11–0.31]; p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: The findings indicate that female adolescents’ use of traditional contraceptives is associated with the risk of pregnancy in KEEA Municipality within the Central Region of Ghana. However, adolescents who had the perception that contraceptives are for married people and those who used modern contraceptives were less likely to get pregnant. Government and non-governmental organizations in Ghana should implement educational policies and programmes aimed at educating sexually-active female adolescents on modern contraceptives and the need to use them to prevent pregnancies. The basis for such policies and programmes should be based on evidence that compared to traditional contraceptives, modern contraceptives are more effective. In addition, there is the need to provide accurate information regarding the use of contraceptives to adolescents that will help change their attitudes towards the use of contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - John Elvis Hagan
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, PMB TF0494, Cape Coast, Ghana;
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Correspondence:
| | - Abdul-Aziz Seidu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, PMB TF0494, Cape Coast, Ghana; (A.-A.S.); (E.B.)
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Thomas Hormenu
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, PMB TF0494, Cape Coast, Ghana;
| | - John Ekow Otoo
- Bono Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, P. O. Box 145, Sunyani, Ghana;
| | - Eugene Budu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, PMB TF0494, Cape Coast, Ghana; (A.-A.S.); (E.B.)
| | - Thomas Schack
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany;
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Ahinkorah BO, Seidu AA, Armah-Ansah EK, Budu E, Ameyaw EK, Agbaglo E, Yaya S. Drivers of desire for more children among childbearing women in sub-Saharan Africa: implications for fertility control. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:778. [PMID: 33317476 PMCID: PMC7734747 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03470-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the extensive research on fertility desires among women the world over, there is a relative dearth of literature on the desire for more children in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study, therefore, examined the desire for more children and its predictors among childbearing women in SSA. METHODS We pooled data from 32 sub-Saharan African countries' Demographic and Health Surveys. A total of 232,784 married and cohabiting women with birth history, who had complete information on desire for more children made up the sample for the study. The outcome variable for the study was desire for more children. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was conducted. Results were presented using adjusted odds ratios (aOR), with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS The overall prevalence of the desire for more children was 64.95%, ranging from 34.9% in South Africa to 89.43% in Niger. Results of the individual level predictors showed that women aged 45-49 [AOR = 0.04, CI = 0.03-0.05], those with higher education [AOR = 0.80, CI = 0.74-0.87], those whose partners had higher education [AOR = 0.88; CI = 0.83-0.94], women with four or more births [AOR = 0.10, CI = 0.09-0.11], those who were using contraceptives [AOR = 0.68, CI = 0.66-0.70] and those who had four or more living children [AOR = 0.09 CI = 0.07-0.12] were less likely to desire for more children. On the other hand, the odds of desire for more children was high among women who considered six or more children as the ideal number of children [AOR = 16.74, CI = 16.06-17.45] and women who did not take decisions alone [AOR = 1.58, CI = 1.51-1.65]. With the contextual factors, the odds of desire for more children was high among women who lived in rural areas compared to urban areas [AOR = 1.07, CI = 1.04-1.13]. CONCLUSIONS This study found relatively high prevalence of women desiring more children. The factors associated with desire for more children are age, educational level, partners' education, parity, current contraceptive use, ideal number of children, decision-making capacity, number of living children and place of residence. Specific public health interventions on fertility control and those aiming to design and/or strengthen existing fertility programs in SSA ought to critically consider these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Abdul-Aziz Seidu
- Department of Population and Health, College of Humanities and Legal Studies, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana. .,College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Ebenezer Kwesi Armah-Ansah
- Department of Population and Health, College of Humanities and Legal Studies, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Eugene Budu
- Department of Population and Health, College of Humanities and Legal Studies, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Edward Kwabena Ameyaw
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ebenezer Agbaglo
- Department of English, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Sanni Yaya
- School of International Development and Global Studies, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Demissie TW, Nigatu AM, Beyene GM. Assessment of emergency contraceptives utilization and associated factors among female college students at Debre Tabor town. Contracept Reprod Med 2020; 5:33. [PMID: 33292745 PMCID: PMC7678215 DOI: 10.1186/s40834-020-00139-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Unwanted pregnancy is a significant public health problem worldwide. In higher education, students are exposed to the risk of unintended pregnancy, abortion, and its related negative consequences. Objective The objective of this study was to assess the magnitude of emergency contraceptives and factors associated with its utilization among college female students at Debre Tabor Town, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional, institutional-based study was conducted from June to October 2017. A multi-stage stratified sampling technique was applied to select the study participants. Data were cleaned, coded, and entered into Epi info 7 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the association between the use of emergency contraception and the predictor variables. The P-value less than 0.05 at 95% CI was taken as statistical significance. Results A total of 821 respondents participated with a response rate of 97.6%. The finding showed that 33.3% of them have used emergency contraceptives following unprotected sex. Female students’ knowledge about emergency contraceptive [AOR: 2.3; 95% CI 1.20, 4.25], age with 20–24 years category [AOR: 2.3; 95% CI 1.21, 4.49] and married [AOR: 2.8; 95% CI 1.22, 6.21] and divorced [AOR: 4.9; 95% CI 1.12, 21.08] students were found to be significant predictors of EC utilization. Conclusions This study revealed that the level of emergency contraceptive utilization was low. Students’ level of knowledge about an emergency contraceptive, age at present, and marital status were found to be the major predictor for emergency contraceptive utilization. Therefore, responsible bodies should develop strategies that enhance the knowledge level of students at the college level on the effective utilization of emergency contraceptive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Araya Mesfin Nigatu
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Mihretie Beyene
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.,Department of Nursing, Debre Tabor University, Debra Tabor, Ethiopia
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12
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Ahinkorah BO, Seidu AA, Appiah F, Budu E, Adu C, Aderoju YBG, Adoboi F, Ajayi AI. Individual and community-level factors associated with modern contraceptive use among adolescent girls and young women in Mali: a mixed effects multilevel analysis of the 2018 Mali demographic and health survey. Contracept Reprod Med 2020; 5:27. [PMID: 33062298 PMCID: PMC7547459 DOI: 10.1186/s40834-020-00132-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Unintended pregnancy constitutes a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa and particularly among young people, who are more likely to closely space births and experience adverse obstetric outcomes. Studies on modern contraceptive use have mostly focused on women of reproductive age in general with limited attention to factors associated with modern contraceptive use among adolescents and young women (aged 15–24) in Mali. We examined the individual and community-level factors associated with modern contraceptive use among this age cohort using the 2018 Mali demographic and health survey data. Methods We analyzed data from 2639 adolescent girls and young women, and our outcome of interest was current use of modern contraceptives. We performed descriptive analysis using frequencies and percentages and inferential analysis using mixed-effects multilevel logistic regression. The results of the mixed-effects multilevel logistic regression were presented as adjusted odds ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Results The prevalence of modern contraceptive use among adolescent girls and young women in Mali was 17.1% [95% CI, 15–19%]. Adolescent girls and young women who were married [aOR = 0.20, CI = 0.09–0.41], had no formal education [aOR = 0.43, CI = 0.32–0.59], in the poorest wealth quintile [aOR = 0.38, CI = 0.19–0.79] and had no children [aOR = 0.38, CI = 0.27–0.53] were less likely to use modern contraceptives. Similarly, those who had low knowledge of modern contraception [aOR = 0.60, CI = 0.42–0.85] and whose ideal number of children was six or more [aOR = 0.66, CI = 0.43–0.99] were less likely to use modern contraceptives. However, those with four or more births were more likely to use modern contraceptives [aOR = 1.85, CI = 1.24–2.77]. Conclusion Modern contraceptive use among adolescent girls and young women in Mali has improved slightly relative to the prevalence of 2012, though the prevalence is still low, compared to the prevalence in other sub-Saharan African countries and the prevalence globally. Individual-level factors such as marital status, educational level, wealth quintile, parity, ethnicity and ideal number of children were associated with the use of modern contraceptive among adolescent girls and young women in Mali. Community knowledge of modern contraceptives was found as a community-level factor associated with modern contraceptive use among adolescent girls and young women. Therefore, Mali’s Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene's Health Promotion and Education unit should prioritise and intensify contraceptive education to increase coverage of modern contraceptive use and address disparities in the use of modern contraceptives. Such education should be done, taking into consideration factors at the individual and community-level of the target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Abdul-Aziz Seidu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.,College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland Australia
| | - Francis Appiah
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Eugene Budu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Collins Adu
- Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Yaa Boahemaa Gyasi Aderoju
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Faustina Adoboi
- Cape Coast Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Anthony Idowu Ajayi
- Population Dynamics and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, Kitisuru, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
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Salifu MG, Mohammed K. Prevalence and Predictors of Contraceptives Use among Women Aged (15-49 years) with Induced Abortion History in Ghana. Adv Prev Med 2020; 2020:2630905. [PMID: 32908708 PMCID: PMC7474737 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2630905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of abortion in Ghana ranges from 27 per 1000 to 61 per 1000 women, causing gynecological complications and maternal mortality. The use of modern contraceptives and its associated factors among women aged 15-49 years have been documented. However, utilization of modern contraceptives specifically among women with induced abortion history is underreported. This study therefore aimed at determining the proportion and identifying predictors of contraceptives use in this underreported population. METHODS This study used secondary data from the 2017 Ghana Maternal Health Survey (GMHS) for the analysis. The analysis is on a weighted sample of 3,039 women aged (15-49 years) with a history of induced abortion. Both descriptive and inferential methods were employed. The chi-square test, univariate and multivariate logistic regression techniques were used to assess statistical associations between the outcome variable and the predictors. Statistical significance was set at 95% confidence interval and p values ≤0.05. RESULTS Out of the 3,039 participants, 37% (95% CI: 34.6, 38.84) used contraceptives. We identified women' age, union, place of residence, knowledge of fertile period, total pregnancy outcomes, and region as strong significant (95% CI, p ≤ 0.05) predictors of post induced abortion contraceptives use. CONCLUSION Contraceptives use among this vulnerable population is low. Therefore, there is a need to provide widespread access to postabortion contraception services and enhance efforts to efficiently integrate safe abortion practices law into health services in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamaldeen Mohammed
- Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, N6A 3K7, London, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Knowledge of and Utilization of Emergency Contraceptive and Its Associated Factors among Women Seeking Induced Abortion in Public Hospitals, Eastern Tigray, Ethiopia, 2017: A Cross-Sectional Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:7209274. [PMID: 31828125 PMCID: PMC6886317 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7209274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background In developing countries, most maternal deaths are related to the lack of accessibility and availability of reproductive health services. In those nations, emergency contraceptive pills are the most commonly used family planning methods to prevent unintended pregnancy. However, women do not use this family planning method for different reasons. Consequently, women expose to unsafe abortion which results in maternal morbidity and mortality. Objective To assess the knowledge of and utilization of emergency contraceptive and its associated factors among women seeking induced abortion in public hospitals, Eastern Tigray, Ethiopia, 2017. Methods Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 380 women, who came for safe termination of pregnancy from April to July 2017. Systematic random sampling technique was used. Pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect data through interview. Data were entered using Epi Info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Data were presented using descriptive statistics. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was carried out to see if there was significant association between variables at P < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval (CI). Result Out of the total 369 respondents, 149 (40.4%) had the knowledge about emergency contraceptive pills. The magnitude of utilization of emergency contraceptive among respondents was found to be 45 (12.2%). Protestant in religion (AOR = 60.85, CI (5.34–693.29)), previous utilization of any contraceptive method (AOR = 0.13, CI (0.05–0.36)), and women who were not knowledgeable about emergency contraceptive (AOR = 0.030, CI (0.006–0.14)) were significantly associated with the utilization of emergency contraceptive. Conclusion Most of the women were not knowledgeable about emergency contraceptive and utilization of emergency contraceptive was also very low. In conclusion, religion, knowledge, and previous utilization of emergency contraceptive were associated with the utilization of emergency contraceptive.
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15
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Ganle JK, Amoako D, Baatiema L, Ibrahim M. Risky sexual behaviour and contraceptive use in contexts of displacement: insights from a cross-sectional survey of female adolescent refugees in Ghana. Int J Equity Health 2019; 18:127. [PMID: 31420037 PMCID: PMC6697917 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-019-1031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Difficulty in accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare is one of the challenges young refugee women face worldwide, in addition to sexual exploitation, violence and abuse. Although Ghana hosts several refugees, little is known about their sexual behaviour and contraceptive use. This study assesses sexual behaviour and contraceptive use among female adolescent refugees in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and August 2016. Respondents comprised 242 female adolescent refugees aged 14–19 years. Structured validated questionnaires were used to collect data. Descriptive statistical methods and multivariate logistic regression statistical analyses methods were used to analyze data. Findings Over 78% of respondents have had penetrative sex; 43% have had coerced sex; 71% have had transactional sex; 36% have had sex while drunk, 57% have had 4–6 sexual partners in the last 12 months before the study, and 38% have had both coerced and transactional sex. Factors that predicted ever having transactional sex included being aged 14–16 compared to those aged 17–19 (AOR =4·80; 95% CI = 2·55–9·04); being from Liberia compared to being from Ghana (AOR = 3·05; 95% CI = 1.69–13·49); having a mother who had no formal education compared to having a mother with tertiary education (AOR = 5.75; 95CI = 1.94–14.99); and living alone (self) compared to living with parents (AOR = 3.77; 95CI = 1.38–10.33). However, having 1–3 sexual partners in the last 12 months as against having 4–6 partners significantly reduced the odds of ever having transactional sex (AOR = 0·02; 95% CI = 0·01–0·08). Awareness about contraceptives was 65%, while ever use of contraceptives was 12%. However, contraceptive use at last sexual intercourse was 8.2%, and current use was 7.3%. Contraceptive use was relatively higher among those who have never had sex while drunk, as well as among those who have never had transactional sex and coerced sex. Contraceptive use was similarly higher among those who had 1–3 sexual partners in the last 12 months compared to those who had 4–6 during the same time period. Conclusion In this time of global migration crises, addressing disparities in knowledge and access to contraception as well as high risk sexual behaviours in refugee situations is important for reducing inequalities in reproductive health outcomes and ensuring both universal health coverage and global health justice. Sex and contraception education and counselling, self-efficacy training, and skills acquisition are needed to help young refugee women negotiate and practice safe sex and resist sexual pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Kuumuori Ganle
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O.Box LG 13, Legon, Accra, Ghana. .,Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), Wallenberg Research Centre at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa.
| | - Doris Amoako
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O.Box LG 13, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Leonard Baatiema
- Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Atake EH, Gnakou Ali P. Women's empowerment and fertility preferences in high fertility countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. BMC Womens Health 2019; 19:54. [PMID: 30953494 PMCID: PMC6451210 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-019-0747-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nearly all countries with fertility levels of more than five children per woman are in Sub-Saharan Africa. Prestige, insurance in old age, and replacement in case of child deaths are related to preferences for large families. In this paper, we examine the association between women's empowerment and fertility preferences of married women aged 35 years and above in four high fertility Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa (FSSA) countries, namely Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Chad. METHOD The ideal number of children among married women and their ability to have the desired number of children are used to measure fertility preferences. We used principal component analysis to construct a multidimensional empowerment index. We then estimated negative binomial and logistic regression models to examine the association between women's empowerment and fertility preferences. Data are from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in the countries included in the analysis. RESULTS Regardless of the country, more empowered women desire significantly fewer children compared with their less empowered counterparts. The first step to having fewer children is formulating programs to improve economic empowerment of women. The specific elements of women's empowerment that were important for fertility preferences included education, skills development, decision-making power, and control over household resources. In addition, familial empowerment matters more than other dimensions of empowerment in influencing women's ability to achieve the desired number of children in the FSSA countries included in the study. CONCLUSION Paid employment and access to and control over resources are factors which, if improved upon, could significantly reduce the ideal number of children. By taking necessary steps, mass media can be used much more adequately to reduce ideal number of children in FSSA countries. In addition, the desire for many children could also be due to their participation in income-generating activities to improve the household's socio-economic status. The findings suggests that improvement of women's ability to have the desired number of children is a big challenge to which policy makers must pay careful attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esso-Hanam Atake
- Department of Economics Sciences, University of Lome Togo, 01 BP 1515, Lome, Togo
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17
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Rokicki S, Merten S. The context of emergency contraception use among young unmarried women in Accra, Ghana: a qualitative study. Reprod Health 2018; 15:212. [PMID: 30567545 PMCID: PMC6299944 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-018-0656-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past decade, awareness and use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) among young women has rapidly increased in Ghana; however, the rate of unintended pregnancy among this group remains high. We conducted a qualitative study to better understand the context and patterns of ECP use among young unmarried women in Ghana. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with unmarried sexually active women aged 18-24 in Accra, Ghana to explore their perceptions, experiences, and opinions regarding sexual relationships and contraceptive methods, and to examine the factors that influence choice of ECPs. A total of 32 young women participated in the study. RESULTS Most participants had used ECPs at least once. Participants described being unable to plan for sexual encounters, and as a result preferred ECPs as a convenient post-coital method. Despite being widely and repeatedly used, women feared the disruptive effects of ECPs on the menstrual cycle and were concerned about long-term side-effects. ECPs were sometimes used as a back-up in cases of perceived failure of traditional methods like withdrawal. Misinformation about which drugs were ECPs, correct dosage, and safe usage were prevalent, and sometimes spread by pharmacists. Myths about pregnancy prevention techniques such as urinating or washing after sex were commonly believed, even among women who regularly used ECPs, and coincided with a misunderstanding about how hormonal contraception works. CONCLUSIONS ECPs appear to be a popular contraceptive choice among young urban women in Ghana, yet misinformation about their correct usage and safety is widespread. While more research on ECP use among young people is needed, these initial results point to the need to incorporate information about ECPs into adolescent comprehensive sexuality education and youth-friendly services and programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slawa Rokicki
- Geary Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sonja Merten
- Society, Gender and Health Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4002, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4001, Basel, Switzerland.
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18
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Beson P, Appiah R, Adomah-Afari A. Modern contraceptive use among reproductive-aged women in Ghana: prevalence, predictors, and policy implications. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2018; 18:157. [PMID: 30253759 PMCID: PMC6156857 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-018-0649-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Modern contraceptive use remains an important public health intervention and a cost-effective strategy to reduce maternal mortality, avert unintended pregnancies and to control population explosion, especially in developing countries. Despite these benefits, there are reports of low usage among reproductive-aged women in most developing countries. This study examined the prevalence and predictors of use of modern contraceptive among reproductive-aged women in an urban center with a high density population in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional, interviewer-administered survey was conducted with 217 randomly selected reproductive-aged women. Data was analyzed with STATA. Logistic regression was performed to identify factors influencing modern contraceptive use. Results Although we found high levels of knowledge and awareness (98%; n = 213) of modern contraception use, only 21% of participants were using modern contraceptives. Marital status, partner consent and support, and religious beliefs strongly predicted usage. Conclusion Usage of modern contraceptives among reproductive-aged women in the Ledzokuku Krowor Municipality is lower than the national target. A multilevel family planning intervention program that primarily focuses on promoting inclusive participation of husbands, targets the unmarried and non-literates reproductive-aged women, and dispels misconceptions, misinformation and religious myths about modern contraceptives has been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Beson
- MPH, BSN, Lekma Hospital, Greater Accra Region, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Richard Appiah
- Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.,Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine Adomah-Afari
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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