Contraceptive choices among women attending the fertility research unit of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto

Abstract

Background: One of the most sensitive and intimate decisions made by any individual or couple is that of fertility control . The knowledge of the factors which influence contraceptive choices may increase its acceptance and uptake. This study determines the choice and reason for contraception among new clients attending the Fertility Research Unit of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study a structured questionnaire was administered to 251 consecutive clients, who attended the Fertility Research Unit of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto between 1 July 2008 and 31 December 2008. Results: Most (58.2%) of the clients were between 21 and 30 years of age. Many (42.6%) were grand multipara. Majority (76.9%) of the clients were married. The main source of knowledge of contraception and referral (45.8%) was the physicians. Child spacing (87.7%) was the most common reason given for contraceptive use. Majority (55.8%) of the clients chose Implanon and the least preferred method of contraception was the condom (2.0%). Conclusion: Our data shows that the most commonly chosen contraceptive method in the study population was the Implanon. Child spacing was the main reason for seeking family planning while the source of contraceptive knowledge was the physicians.

Keywords

• Child spacing
• contraception
• implanon