FACTORS INFLUENCING THE UPTAKE OF COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE AT MUBENDE REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL MUBENDE DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

Contraception allows women, men, and couples to choose if and when to have children by way of willingly and intentionally delaying, spacing, or limiting pregnancies thus, contraception has been, and continues to be, a key focus of the global agenda for maternal health. The study aims to assess the Factors influencing the uptake of combined oral contraceptives among women of reproductive age.

 Methodology

A cross-sectional descriptive study involving women of reproductive age attending Mubende Regional Referral Hospital, using a quantitative method of data collection. Non-probability convenience sampling approach where the interviewer-administered questionnaires to 30 respondents.

 Results

Half 15(50%) of the respondents were married, 11(37%) were cohabiting, 2(7%) were single, 1(3%) were divorced, and 1(3%) were separated. The majority 19(63%) of the respondents were aged 21 to 35 years. (42%) mentioned having negative outcomes as one of the reasons for not using combined contraceptive pills. 22(73%) said that they needed education about contraceptives. 20(67%) said that preventing pregnancy is one of the benefits. 10(33%) mentioned child spacing as one of the benefits. 5(17%) accepted that cultural norms affect combined oral contraceptive uptake, and 20(67%) of the respondents said that their communities do not support young adolescents in using family planning methods. (43%) said that it is the opinion of both partners that carries weight in terms of contraceptive use.

 Conclusion

Marital status, age, side effects, Benefits and knowledge about contraceptives, community support, cultural beliefs, and opinions of partners were the major factors influencing the uptake of combined oral contraceptives among women of reproductive Age.

 Recommendations

The Ministry of Health should also empower healthcare providers to always educate the women and communities on the various benefits of utilizing COCS.