Factors Influencing Utilization of Contraceptives among Women of Reproductive Age in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: High maternal mortality rates remain a global challenge, falling short of the MDG target of reducing deaths to under 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Significant attention has been made in maternal and child health, leading to increased focus and initiatives from various groups, reliance on contraceptive methods is a key strategy for population control and preventing pregnancy. However, standard contraceptive methods do not offer protection against STIs. This study aims to explore factors influencing contraceptive utilization among women of reproductive age in Jos North local government area.  Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted using a sample size of 385 women selected through a simple multi-stage random sampling process from two of 20 wards under the Primary Health Care Unit. Data collected using a self-structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 21, and correlations were assessed with Spearman's Rho. Results were presented in frequency tables, charts, and percentages, with a significance level established at p < 0.05. Results: The most significant factors influencing contraceptive use among women in Jos North were knowledge of family planning methods (86.9%) and husband's support (84.1%). Other key influences included the desire to space children (81.8%), the number of existing children (60.1%, 60.1 %, 60.1%), and economic situation (49.2%). Conclusion: The utilization of contraceptives among the participants is a complex interplay of personal knowledge and interpersonal dynamics. The minimal impact of demographic variables suggests that future interventions should focus less on general education and more on partner-inclusive counseling and the management of contraceptive-related side effects to bridge the gap between awareness and consistent use.