Abstract:
One of the world’s problems in the 21st century has been high population growth which
slackens economic growth and development of many developing countries. This is fueled
by high fertility rates especially in the rural areas. The era between 1960 and now has
seen unprecedented development in the area of birth control mechanisms but with very
little decrease in human population particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. With the
proliferation of modern contraceptives and Ghana’s enunciation of a family planning
policy in 1969, it is anticipated that family sizes will drop to the barest minimum
(replacement level). Rural areas still have the highest fertility rates due to issues related
to their work, accessibility, affordability of contraceptives and to a large extent, culture.
This study adopted both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. One
hundred and fifty six (156) women between the ages of 15 and 49 were investigated for
the quantitative aspect of the study and a focus group for the qualitative aspect. The role
of women, place of children, contraceptive perceptions and fertility preferences as told by
women formed the sinews of this research.It was found that both old and young women
have extended knowledge of contraceptives. Also educational background wasfound to
be quite influential oncontraceptive use which increased with increased education. Place
of work and whether or not respondent belongs to an association also influenced fertility.
Average number of children desired was four.
