Utilization of reversible long acting family planning methods among married 15-49 years women in Areka town, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Utilization of family planning can improve the means of people in poverty. Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods in particular can considerably reduce the level of unwanted pregnancy as well as maternal mortality and morbidity more in developing countries. Thus, study was conducted with the aim of assessing the level of LARC utilization and associated factors among married women (15-49) in Areka town, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: Community based cross-sectional study was conducted in a total of 357 women within the study area. Population proportion to size was used to assign sample to kebele and participates were selected by systematic random sampling technique from randomly selected kebeles. Data collection was conducted by trained data collectors, using structured and pretested questionnaire. Finally, data entered, cleaned, and analysed in SPSS 16. Results: The utilization of LARC was 106(29.7%) of study participants. Particularly, LARCs utilization were 81(22.7%) for implants and 25(7.0%), Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD). Statistically, LARC utilization was (AOR=2.47 at 95%CI (1.24-4.90)) times likely among 26-36 aged mothers compared to 15-24 age groups. Government employed mothers were (AOR=2.59 at 95%CI (1.39-4.79)) times probable to use LARC compared to merchants. Hence, maternal education and occupation were the independent predictors of LARC utilization as the principal findings of this study. Conclusions: Enormous extent of unmet need exist in utilization of LARC within the study area. Mothers’ age and occupation were significantly associated with its utilization. Therefore, health promotion activities on the benefits of LARC need to be undertaken to increase awareness and usage of these contraceptives.