Use of Modern Contraceptive Methods Among Women of Childbearing Age Who Use Health Services in Abidjan and Agboville (Côte d'Ivoire)

Abstract

Introduction: Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest maternal mortality rate, with over 542 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. This rate is estimated at 315 deaths per 100,000 live births in Côte d'Ivoire (EDS, 2021). Several factors, including low national contraceptive prevalence estimated at 13.9%, contribute to this situation. The aim of this study was to analyze the factors associated with the use of modern contraceptive methods (MCM) among women of childbearing age attending health services. Methodology: we conducted a cross-sectional study of 605 women of childbearing age in five health centers in Abidjan and Agboville from December 2018 to September 2019. MCM use was defined as "being on modern contraception in the survey period". Modified Poisson regression was applied to identify factors associated with MCM use using STATA version 15 software. Results A total of 605 women participated in our study, 45% of them aged 15–24 years. The prevalence of modern contraceptive use was 36%. Some 56% of clients had received family planning (FP) information at health centers. MCM use was associated with educational level (primary: adjusted Prevalence Ratio (aPR): 2.1 (95%CI: 1.15–3.82); secondary: (aPR): 2.40 (95%CI: 1.31–4.36); higher (aPR): 2.42 (95%CI: 1.33–4.41)), information received about FP [(aPR): 5.56 (95%CI: 2.78–11.10)] and peer pressure [(aPR): 1.39 (95%CI: 1.12–1.72)]. Conclusion FP programs should strengthen communication on FP, particularly through counseling sessions, and ensure that every opportunity for contact with health centers is seized to give women the right information on contraceptive methods. Measures should also be taken to increase girls' school enrolment and keep them in school.