FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO LOW UTILIZATION OF FAMILY PLANNING AMONG WOMEN AGED 18-45 YEARS IN BUKOOVA HEALTH CENTER III, LUUKA DISTRICT. A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

More women are using effective methods of contraception with the number of women with a need for family planning rose from 0.7 billion in 1990 to 1.1 billion in 2021. The study aims to assess the factors contributing to the low utilization of family planning among women aged 18-45 years in Bukoova Health Center III, Luuka District.

 Methodology

A cross-sectional study study was conducted in Bukoova Health Center III, Luuka district. A systematic sampling procedure was used. Semi-structured questionnaires with closed and open-ended questions written in English. Data was analyzed and counted by tallying using a pen and sheets of paper.

 Results

Most of the respondents (40%) were married whereas the least (18%) were divorced. (58%) had intentions of using family planning methods in the future whereas (42%) did not. (46%) were decided by their husband. (54%) had never had enough counseling services from health workers. (54%) were unemployed whereas the least (22%) were self-employed. (50%) their husbands had attained a primary level of education (52%) were prevented by culture/religion

Planning. (54%) had never had enough counseling services (62%) reported >5km as the distance from their homes to the

 Conclusion

Major factors contributing to low utilization of family planning among women aged 18-45 years were: discomfort with the particular family planning method, unemployment levels, husbands' decisions, cultural/religious beliefs, inadequate counseling services, a long distance from homes to the health facility, and long-awaited time.

 Recommendation

The Ministry of Health should enforce in-service training of health workers to improve and sustain provider knowledge and competence in providing a range of family planning methods.