Perception and Utilization of Contraceptives Among Women of Reproductive Age Group in Kafin Madaki Community, Bauchi, Northeast Nigeria

math_shortcuts Background : It is estimated that 214 million women of reproductive age have an unmet need for contraception in many developing countries including Nigeria. Some reasons attributed to this are: limited access to contraception, fear or experience of side-effects, cultural or religious reasons. This study evaluated the perception and utilization of contraceptive among women of reproductive age group in Kafin Madaki Community, Bauchi State, Northeast Nigeria. Methods : It was a prospective cross-sectional study. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain necessary information from the respondents. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results : The current contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) was 38%. Majority of the respondents have a positive perception towards the use of contraceptive 84.1%. The factors positively and significantly associated with contraceptive use are: Parity (OR=5.69; 95% CI=4.69 – 6.69), healthcare workers as source of information on contraceptive (OR=6.16; CI=3.02–12.57), positive perception towards use of contraceptives (OR=6.37; 95% CI=1.98 – 20.54), and fear of side effects (OR=4.54; CI=2.33 – 8.84). The factors negatively and significantly associated with contraceptive use are: families as source of information on contraceptive (OR=0.16; CI=0.07–0.03), being desirous of pregnancy (OR=0.13; 95% CI=0.07 – 0.25), and unavailability of contraceptives (OR=0.07; 95% CI=0.03 – 0.19). Conclusion : The CPR in this study is within the National 2020 target but far below the WHO recommended global target. Most women have a positive perception towards contraceptive use. However, unavailability and lack of access to contraceptives is a significant factor precluding its use in the community.