An Assessment of Factors Affecting Modern Contraceptive Use Among Females of Reproductive Age in Achimota, Ghana.

Abstract

Background: Globally, an estimated 214 million women have an unmet need for modern contraception, with the highest burden observed in low- and middle-income countries. Insufficient utilization of modern contraceptives contributes to unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal deaths. The use of modern contraceptives has increased globally, from 54% in 1990 to 57% in 2012. Contrariwise, contraceptive rates in Africa have remained consistently low at 23% and 24%, respectively. This study aimed to assess the factors that influenced the use of modern contraceptives among women of reproductive age in Achimota, Ghana. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design. Data were collected using a questionnaire survey of402 female adults aged 15-49 years residing in Achimota. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 27. Descriptive statistics were generated to measure central tendencies and dispersion Inferential analysis was performed using the statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 2. to determine the association between variables. Chi-square and logistic regression were done to find associations. Results were expressed as adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Results show that socio-demographic and obstetric factors are significantly associated with modern contraception use. The study concludes that the analysis indicates that, compared to women with no formal education (reference group), women with secondary education showed a significant increase in odds (aOR=3.971, 95% CI=1.66-9.52), and those with tertiary education exhibited even higher odds (aOR= 58.657, 95% CI= 19.74-174.34). Conclusion: These findings highlight the positive association between higher education levels and contraceptive use. Public sensitization is required in the Achimota area to help improve contraceptive use.