Increasing access and use of modern contraceptive methods among women of reproductive age in Nigeria: an integrated approach to reproductive health

Chinazo N. Ujuju, Society for Family Health
Obi Oluigbo, Society for Family Health
Richard Fakolade, society for Family Health
Jamilah Mohammed-Jantabo, Society for Family Health
Fatima Mohammad, Society for Family Health

The unmet need for family planning (FP) stands at 13.6% in Nigeria. To effectively increase the use of modern contraceptives among women of reproductive age (WRA), knowledge about access and correct use of contraceptives to reduce unintended or mis-timed pregnancies is required. A quasi experimental design was conducted to evaluate impact of intervention(s) among WRA 15-49 years. Control communities with characteristics similar to that of the intervention communities were selected for this study. Overall, 1,800 respondents were selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure. Bivariate analysis was conducted to assess impact of intervention. Findings revealed a significant increase in the access to health facilities, effectiveness of FP methods, availability of FP methods and use of modern FP at the intervention communities compared with the control communities. These findings have shown that integrated approach was effective in improving access and use of modern FP method.