Socio - Cultural Factors Influencing Uptake of Long Term and Permanent Methods of Family Planning Among Women of Reproductive Age in Baringo North Sub-County, Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of utilization of long-acting permanent methods (LAPMs) of family planning (FP) among women in Ossen Location, Baringo North Sub-County of Kenya, and to determine the influence of myths and misconceptions on women’s choice about LAPMs options. Methodology: This study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design and a mixed method research (MMR) approach, which allowed for concomitant collection of qualitative and quantitative data. The target population of the study consisted of all 2440 women of reproductive ages (15-49 years) in Ossen location.  The sample size consisted of 421 women, selected using stratified random sampling.  Women willing to participate, able to give informed consent, in reproductive age, and having resided in the area for at least six months were included in the study.    Findings:  The prevalence of FP in the study area was 66%, with more women (61%) using short term FP methods (pills and Depo-Provera) compared to those using long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (implants and intra-uterine contraceptive devices/IUCD) [39%] and LAPM/tubal ligation (0%).  The study found significant myths and misconceptions about LAPMs: IUCD, tubal ligation and implants. The study found that women who harbored myths and misconceptions about IUCD, tubal ligation and implants were likely to use short-term FP methods such as pills rather than LAPMs. Unique Contributions to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study reports on interesting myths and misconceptions still extant among women in a typical county in Kenya.  The research also documents a clear relationship between the existence of myths and misconceptions and the unlikelihood of using LAPMs.  Consequently, the study recommends for adoption of approaches that remove the myths and misconceptions in the whole population and improve the poor attitude and negative perception towards LAPMs.