Effect of a multi-pronged program on FP use and intention to use: A three-phase evaluation of RISE program in Uganda

Abstract Introduction : Family planning aligned non-governmental organizations more commonly evaluate their performance as a routine part of their work than as research output. This paper evaluates the effect of a 5-year semi-nationwide FP program run by an NGO with a focus on use of and intention to use FP. Methods : Cross-sectional baseline, midline, and endline surveys were carried out to monitor and assess progress on implementing a 5-year FP program. Key outcome indicators in this analysis are the current use of any method, the use of the modern FP method, and the intention to use a method in the next 6 months. Absolute percent differences are used to measure change which is further analysed using weighted multivariable mixed effects models. Results The use of any contraceptives among married women increased by 2.7% while the use of modern contraceptives reduced by 0.2% but the changes were not statistically significant. The prevalence of the use of long-acting reversible contraceptives among married women reduced by 1.8%. There was a 5.7% increase in the use of short-term methods. The intention to use FP in the next 6 months reduced by absolute 5.0% among men and 5.4% among women and these changes were significant at 5% level. Conclusion : There was an increase in FP use in hard-to-reach or low-level service utilization areas in the country. Thus, the RISE consortium achieved its long-term goal of increasing access to FP services especially in the hard-to-reach setting.