Attitude, Practice, and Factors Affecting Contraceptive Use among Women Attending Postnatal Care in a Tertiary Health Facility in Jos North LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Contraceptive acceptance and utilization in society has been a huge challenge for communities in developing countries. There is a need to support the increase in the utilization of contraception and family planning services. In all this, good knowledge and practice of contraception services will enable women to select the best methods. The study seeks to qualitatively assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of contraceptive use among women attending postnatal care in a health facility in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State in September 2019. This study utilized Focus Group Discussions among 36 women recruited using the purposive sampling technique. There were four (4) sessions involving nine (9) women per session. Findings: Of the 36 women, a majority (88.9%) had positive perception regarding contraception, all agreed that contraception and family planning is beneficial to families and communities. A majority felt that communities are yet to accept contraception. Most (83.3%) of the women had good knowledge of contraception. Three-quarters (77.8%) of the women have used contraception in the past, and about half (41.7%) are using it currently. Attitude towards adoption of contraceptives after current pregnancy was generally good. About half (52.7%) of the participants stated they required spousal approval before they adopt a method of contraception. Conclusion: There is a need for health agencies, development partners, and government to continue the health education, community sensitization, and support towards making contraception and family planning commodities available and accessible.