To Use or Not To Use: Factors Influencing Utilization of Family Planning Services in Bomfa Subdistrict, Ejisu Juaben

Abstract

Family planning is a cost effective health intervention that has immediate benefits for women, children and families. However, in the Bomfa subdistrict for the past five years, 1997-2001 the family planning acceptor rate has never exceeded 5%. The objective of this study was therefore to determine the factors accounting for this low acceptor rate. A descriptive cross sectional study was carried out over a four-week period. A total number of 170 persons, 76% females and 24% males were interviewed using structured questionnaires and focus group discussions to assess their practices, beliefs and attitudes towards family planning. Some aspects of the results were analysed in relation to sex. The findings of the study revealed that 32.4% of the respondents were currently using a family planning method. Education was found to be positively related to contraceptive use among females. The major reason for non-use of contraceptives was the fear of side effects. Eighty percent of the respondents discussed the use of family planning with their friends and neighbours. Child spacing is greatly valued but fertility regulation to some extent was seen as a woman’s responsibility. It is therefore being recommended that Information, Education and Communication activities on family planning should be intensified through community durbars and identified male and female groups to dispel misconceptions and allay fears about side effects. Awareness on the importance of spousal communication and male involvement in reproductive health issues should also be promoted.