Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Use among Lactating Mothers in the Agotime-Ziope District of the Volta Region of Ghana

Abstract

Background: Evidence suggests that modern contraceptive use among married women in low-income countries, including Ghana, is very low. This notwithstanding, few empirical research has been done to identify the determinants of modern contraceptives use among lactating mothers in Ghana more generally, and in the Agotime-Ziope District of the Volta Region in particular. The purpose of this study was to examine factors determining modern contraceptive usage among lactating mothers in the Agotime-Ziope District of the Volta Region. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 160 randomly sampled lactating mothers in the district. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Descriptive, bivariate and logistic regression analysis techniques were used to analyse and present the data. Results: Contraceptive awareness among lactating mothers is 99%. Despite this, contraceptive prevalence or use among the study respondents was very low: only 29% were currently using contraceptives. Educational level, place of residence, partners influence, and partner’s educational level were significantly associated with modern contraceptive use. Fear of side effects, poor attitudes of healthcare providers and partners being opposed to use of modern contraceptives were also found to discourage modern contraceptive use. Conclusion: High levels of awareness of contraceptive methods do not necessarily lead to use in this study. It is therefore recommended that the Agotime-Ziope District Health Management team develop and implement educational interventions for lactating mothers that will enable them understand the importance of using modern contraceptive methods. Men should also be educated on the importance of the use of modern contraceptives in order to encourage their partners to use the methods.