Family Medicine & Medical Science Research
Open Access

Abstract

Modern Contraceptive Method Mix and Factors Affecting Utilization of Modern Contraceptives among Married Women in Adigrat Town, Tigray, Northern Ethiopia

Alem Gebremariam and Adamu Addissie

Background: In Ethiopia the prevalence of contraceptive use among currently married women has increased nearly six fold in the last 20 years, from 5 percent in the 1990 to 29 percent in the 2011 Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey. The contraceptive method mix is dominated by short term methods like pills and injectables. This study was conducted to assess the contraceptive method mix and factors associated with modern contraceptive use among currently married women in Adigrat town.

Methods: A community based cross sectional study design was conducted in three selected Kebeles of Adigrat town. A total of 594 study subjects were interviewed. Systematic random sampling method was used to select study subjects. Factors associated with modern contraceptive use were identified using logistic regression.

Results: The current modern contraceptive prevalence was 51.3% (95%CI= 47.2, 55.4). The most preferred method was Depo-Provera, 207(68.3%), followed by pills, 35(11.6%). Thirty one (10.2%), 16 (5.3%), 12 (4%) of participants have found with implants, intra uterine device (IUD), and tubal ligation, respectively. None of the participants had reported vasectomy. The main source of the current method was government health centers (71.3%) and hospital (20.8%). Various reasons were given for not using modern contraception. The main reasons stated were desire to be pregnant (38.9%) and exclusive breastfeeding (25%). The result of multiple logistic regression revealed that couples’ education status, desire to have child within two years or soon, discussion on family planning with partner and ever use of modern contraceptives were found significantly associated with modern contraceptive use.

Conclusions: The magnitude of modern contraceptive use in the town is almost comparable with the national demographic health survey 2011 and other urban based studies. But the contraceptive method mix is poor, dominated by short term contraceptives. Therefore, couples discussion on family planning and husbands’ involvement in family planning programs should be encouraged.