RESEARCH ARTICLE

 

Knowledge and use of modern family planning methods by rural women in Zambia

 

 

C Mubita-Ngoma^I; M Chongo Kadantu^II

Msc, RM, RN. Department of Nursing Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Zambia,
^IIBsc RM, RN. Nursing Manager, Siavonga District Health Management Team

Correspondence

 

 

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ABSTRACT

The main aim of the study was to determine knowledge and use of modern contractive methods among reproductive age group rural women in Zambia. The study is a descriptive cross-sectional study of 105 randomly selected rural women. Data was collected using semi-structured interview schedule and analyzed using EPI Info version 6 statistical packages. The findings revealed that 63% of the respondents were within the age group 21-35 years, 65% were married and 64% were peasant farmers. 90% of the respondents had heard about modern contraceptives and their main source of information was the Health worker (62%). 76% of the respondents stated that modern contraceptive methods could be obtained from public health facilities. 56% of the respondents were currently using modem contraceptive methods and 46% were not using modern contraceptive methods.
Reasons for non use of contraceptive methods were religious beliefs (50%), partner disapproval (30%) and side effects (20%). The results showed a relationship between educational level and use of contraceptives (Chi-square 7.83, df = 3, P < 0.05) and spouse approval or support of contractive methods and use of contraceptive (Chi-square 5.9, df = 2, P < 0.05). Therefore, efforts to promote modem contraceptive use among the rural women should be intensified to overcome barriers to contraceptive use and should involve men.

Key words: Modern, Contraceptives methods, Knowledge, Use, Rural women, Zambia

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Correspondence:
Catherine Mubita-Ngoma
Head of Department
University of Zambia
School of Medicine
Department of Nursing Sciences
P.O. Box 50110, Lusaka, Zambia
Email: Catherinengoma@yahoo.com