Prevalence and pattern of long acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods use in immediate postpartum period at Jimma University Medical Center, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background Postpartum family planning (PPFP) is defined as the prevention of unintended pregnancy and closely spaced pregnancies through the first twelve months following childbirth. The immediate postpartum period is particularly favorable time to provide long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods and postpartum provision of LARC is safe and effective. Despite the advantages of LARCs, they are infrequently used in Ethiopia.Objective This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of LARC methods use among counseled mothers in immediate postpartum.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 393 women who gave birth at Jimma University Medical Centre from 12 November 2016 to 21 January 2017. Data were collected by face-to-face interview and record review using pre-tested questionnaire and analysed using SPSS 20. Logistic regression was used to identify associated factors for LARCs use.Results Prevalence of LARCs use among immediate postpartum mothers was 53.2% (209/393) and more than three-fourths (78.0%) of participants used implanon. The most common reported reason for not using LARCs was preference of other method (25.5%). Having more than four alive kids (95% CI: 1.15,5.95), high monthly income (≥1000 ETB) (95% CI: 1.08,7.20), planning to delay next pregnancy by more than 2 years (95% CI: 1.60,9.28), completed family size (95% CI: 1.12,3.15), prior use of LARCs (95% CI: 1.30,7.20) and receiving counseling during antenatal care (ANC) follow-up and before delivery (95% CI: 1.01, 4.73) were associated with immediate postpartum LARCs use.Conclusion Although the prevalence of LARC methods use in immediate postpartum was good, counseling mothers during ANC follow-up and before delivery can further increase its use. Therefore, the need for providing counseling during ANC follow up and before delivery to increase utilisation of immediate postpartum LARC use is emphasised.Key terms Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), Immediate postpartum, Ethiopia