Abstract:
Background: In recent years, uptake of modern contraceptives in Ghana appears to be increasing and family planning services have become even more available. However, a substantial number of married and unmarried women still report having unmet need for modern contraceptives. This study assessed the level of knowledge and utilisation of modern contraception methods among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) in Ghana.
Research Methodology: The study analysed the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey data, within the framework of a quantitative cross-sectional research design. The study employed a sample of 15,014 women in their reproductive age (15-49 years) who were selected across the country. The study employed descriptive statistics (percentages) and cross-tabulation analysis to assess the data. Also, the study estimated a logistic regression model to determine the factors influencing the respondents’ use of modern contraceptives. Stata version 15 was used to carry out the data analysis.
Results: The findings indicate that knowledge of modern contraceptives among the respondents is very high (98.5%). However, only about 23.05% of the respondents are users of modern contraceptives. Thus, the modern contraceptive prevalence rate among the respondents is low. The most widely used types of modern contraceptives among the respondents are implants (27.04%), injections (27%), pills (14.3%), emergency contraception (10%), condoms (9.5%), and female sterilization (6.8%). The findings also indicate that the majority of modern contraceptive users are between 20-39 years old, married, urban dwellers, educated, the wealthy, or the poor. The logistic regression estimation results showed respondents’ use of modern contraceptives is influenced by; age (20-24 years, OR=2.2, p<0.001; 25-29 years, OR=1.9, p<0.001; 30-34 years, OR=1.4, p<0.001; 45-49 years, OR=0.5, p<0.001); marital status (women living with their partner, OR=1.3, p<0.001; separated, OR=1.2, p<0.001; widowed, OR=0.5, p<0.001); education (primary, OR=1.4, p<0.001; secondary, OR=1.7,
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p<0.001; higher, OR=2, p<0.001); employment status (Yes, OR=1.4, p<0.001); number of children (OR=1.3, p<0.001); and wealth status (poorer and middle, OR=1.3, p<0.001; richer, OR=1.4, p<0.001).
Conclusion: The use of modern contraceptives among the respondents is low despite high knowledge about the various methods. The study recommends that public awareness creation programmes on modern contraceptives. In addition, women empowerment interventions like opportunities for higher education and employment, and community-based programmes should be intensified to encourage the utilization of modern contraceptives.
