Knowledge and attitudes towards the acceptability of immediate postpartum intrauterine devices among postpartum mothers at Wakiso Health Center IV. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/5c1rmj21Keywords:
Postpartum intrauterine devices, Wakiso health center IV, Postpartum, ContraceptionAbstract
Background:
Immediate postpartum intrauterine devices (PPIUDs) are highly effective in preventing unintended and closely spaced pregnancies, yet their uptake in Uganda remains low. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and acceptability of PPIUDs among postpartum mothers at Wakiso Health Center IV.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 73 consecutively selected postpartum mothers. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results were presented using frequencies and percentages, in the form of tables and figures.
Results:
The study involved 34(46.6%) women who were aged 20-29 years, followed by 22(30.1%) aged 30–39 years. Three-quarters of the women (55; 75.3%) were married. Overall, 50 (68.5%) mothers were familiar with IPPFP methods, and 62 (84.9%) had heard of PPIUDs, though a detailed understanding of benefits and side effects remained limited. Positive attitudes were noted, with 39 (53.4%) expressing favorable views toward immediate postpartum IUD use, although 23 (31.5%) were unsure of its safety. Acceptability was moderate: 41 (56.2%) reported they were likely or very likely to use a PPIUD after childbirth. Key barriers included inadequate information (37.0%), cultural or religious objections (27.4%), and partner influence. Most respondents (64.4%) perceived services as accessible, and 56 (76.7%) believed PPIUDs should be more widely promoted.
Conclusion:
Postpartum mothers demonstrated moderate knowledge, generally positive attitudes, and moderate acceptability of PPIUDs, though critical gaps in understanding and perceived safety persist.
Recommendations:
Strengthening counselling, engaging male partners, improving community sensitization, and ensuring consistent availability of PPIUD services are essential. These measures will enhance informed decision-making, reduce unintended pregnancies, and improve maternal health outcomes in similar low-resource clinical and community settings.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Juliet Apio, Jimmy Okwany, Hasifah Nansereko, Frascisco Ssemuwemba, Jane Frank Nalubega (Author)
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