ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND UTILIZATION OF MODERN FAMILY PLANNING METHODS AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN UGBOR COMMUNITY, BENIN CITY

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge and utilization of modern family planning methods among women of reproductive age in Ugbor Community, Benin City, Edo State. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design to assess women’s awareness, practices, and the factors influencing the use of modern contraceptives. A convenient sampling technique was used to select 168 women of reproductive age, out of which 166 correctly completed and returned the questionnaires, yielding a response rate of 98.8%. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, and results were presented in frequencies, percentages, means, and chi-square tests. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents demonstrated a good level of knowledge of modern family planning methods, with a grand mean score of 1.6 (cut-off = 1.5). More than half (55%) of the respondents had good knowledge, while 45% showed poor knowledge. The level of utilization of modern family planning methods was also high, with a grand mean score of 2.5 (cut-off = 2.5). About 52% of the women demonstrated a high level of utilization, while 48% had low utilization. Major factors influencing utilization included lack of spousal support, cultural and religious beliefs, perceived side effects, and limited access to contraceptives. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between sociodemographic variables (such as age, marital status, education, religion, and place of residence) and knowledge levels (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between knowledge and utilization of modern family planning methods (χ² = 7.788, p = 0.021). The study concludes that although women in Ugbor Community generally possess good knowledge and fair utilization of modern family planning methods, certain socio-cultural and personal factors hinder optimal use. It is recommended that continuous community-based education, male partner involvement, and improved accessibility to family planning services be strengthened to enhance uptake among women of reproductive age. Keywords: Knowledge, Utilization, Modern family planning, Women of reproductive age

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urn:uuid:c23cd9ca-88ea-40b2-bde2-8a2786d0346a