KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF CONTRACEPTION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

Objective: This study explored the knowledge, attitude and prevalence of use of contraceptives Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study Setting: Antenatal Clinic Subjects: Pregnant women aged 16 to 44 years Results: Contraceptive use was poor (29%) despite high level of awareness (96%). The most widely known contraceptive methods were Injectables (91%), Pills (91%) and Intrauterine device (48%). Contraceptive methods used include: Injectable contraceptives (50%), oral contraceptive pills (38%), intrauterine device (6%) and implants (6%) while none of the respondents reported the use of barrier method. Common reasons for not using contraceptives include lack of spousal consent (34%) and belief that contraception is unacceptable religiously (19%) and culturally (18%) and desire for a male child (14%). A significant relationship was observed between formal education and contraceptive use. Conclusion: Contraceptive use was low among pregnant women despite high level of awareness. Motivation of couples through media and health personnel should be accorded priority.