Abstract

Introduction

The utilization of modern contraceptives is crucial for effective family planning, reducing unintended pregnancies, and improving maternal and child health outcomes. Despite the proven benefits of these methods, their uptake remains low in many communities, including Molyko. Understanding the factors that influence contraceptive use is essential for addressing barriers and promoting better reproductive health.

Aim

This study aims to examine the factors affecting the utilization of modern contraceptives among females of childbearing age in the Molyko community. Specifically, it seeks to assess knowledge levels, identify barriers to contraceptive use, and explore socio-cultural, economic, and personal factors influencing women’s decisions regarding contraceptives.

Results

Findings reveal that while awareness of modern contraceptive methods is relatively high among women in Molyko, actual utilization remains low. Key barriers identified include fear of side effects, cultural and religious beliefs, partner influence, and limited access to contraceptive services. These factors significantly hinder women’s ability to utilize modern contraceptives effectively.

CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.0 Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of the background, objectives, problem statement, research questions, hypothesis, significance, justification, scope, and operational and conceptual definitions of terms.

1.1. Background of the Study

Modern contraceptives are defined as methods used to prevent pregnancy and manage fertility, which can be categorized into several types based on their duration of effectiveness and mechanism of action (World Health Organization, 2025). The concept of modern contraceptives has evolved significantly over time, influenced by cultural, scientific, and social changes.

The use of contraceptive methods dates back to ancient civilizations, with the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans employing various barrier methods and herbal remedies to prevent pregnancy. During the Enlightenment in the 18th century, thinkers like Thomas Malthus emphasized the need for family planning amid growing populations, although these ideas faced resistance due to moral and religious beliefs (Malcom P. et al., 2009).

The birth control movement gained traction in the late 19th century, marked by Charles Knowlton’s 1830 publication, “The Fruits of Philosophy,” which advocated for contraception to improve women’s health and autonomy (Malcom P. et al., 2009). Margaret Sanger emerged as a pivotal figure in the early 20th century, opening the first birth control clinic in the U.S. in 1916 and founding the American Birth Control League in 1921, significantly influencing family planning initiatives (Malcom P. et al., 2009). The mid-20th century saw the approval of the first oral contraceptive pill, Enovid, in 1960, revolutionizing family planning and empowering women with reliable fertility control (Malcom P. et al., 2009).

Modern contraceptives are scientifically developed methods used to prevent pregnancy and manage fertility, playing a critical role in family planning and reproductive health (United Nations Population Fund, 2022). These methods are categorized into short-acting contraceptives, such as oral pills, patches, and condoms; long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), including intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants; permanent methods like tubal ligation and vasectomy; and emergency contraception, such as pills or copper IUDs (World Health Organization, 2025). Contraceptives provide numerous benefits, including improved maternal and child health by ensuring proper spacing between pregnancies, reducing unintended pregnancies, and empowering individuals, particularly women, to make informed reproductive decisions.

They also bring economic advantages by allowing families to better plan their resources (World Health Organization, 2025). However, access to modern contraceptives is still limited in many regions due to cultural, educational, and systemic barriers. Addressing these challenges is vital for equitable access to family planning worldwide (World Health Organization, 2022; United Nations Population Fund, 2022; Guttmacher Institute, 2021).

Worldwide, the utilization of modern contraceptives remains low, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the unmet need for family planning is substantial (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 2021). According to the International Federation, over 885 million women of reproductive age in low-income countries wish to avoid pregnancy, yet their unmet need for modern contraception remains high. Studies indicate that cultural beliefs, lack of access to information, and healthcare services significantly hinder contraceptive uptake (Mugisha et al., 2021). In Africa, the prevalence of modern contraceptive use varies widely, with Southern Africa generally exhibiting higher rates compared to West and Central Africa. Focusing on Cameroon, particularly in Buea, the landscape of contraceptive use reflects broader regional trends while also presenting unique local challenges. A study conducted in the Cameroon Development Corporation plantation camps revealed that despite a contraceptive prevalence rate of 63.1%, the majority of women relied on less effective traditional methods rather than modern contraceptives (Ngoh et al., 2020).

Adebayo et al. in 2019 conducted a study in Nigeria titled “Influence of educational level on contraceptive use among women” found that women with higher educational attainment were significantly more likely to utilize modern contraceptives compared to those with lower levels of education (Adebayo et al., 2019). A similar study conducted by Mugisha et al. in the year 2021 in Uganda revealed that cultural beliefs and societal norms heavily impact women’s attitudes toward modern contraception, with many expressing concerns about potential side effects and health risks associated with contraceptive methods (Mugisha et al., 2021).

1.2. Statement Of The Problem

A significant real-world issue regarding modern contraceptives is the lack of access and education in underserved communities, particularly among young women (Wubshet D. et al., 2022). Many individuals are unaware of the variety of contraceptive methods available, such as hormonal pills and long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), and often hold misconceptions about their safety and effectiveness (Gilda S. et al., 2016).

Misinformation and stigma surrounding contraceptives can lead to unintended pregnancies, with individuals relying on outdated or inaccurate information from peers or community sources (Wubshet D. et al., 2022).

Fear of judgment and embarrassment further discourage individuals from seeking guidance from healthcare providers (Gilda S. et al., 2016). This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive sexual education and accessible contraceptive services (Wubshet D. et al., 2022). Systemic challenges, such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure and insufficient family planning resources, exacerbate the issue, contributing to high rates of unmet need for contraception (Gilda S. et al., 2016).

These barriers not only limit individual autonomy over reproductive choices but also negatively impact public health outcomes, increasing maternal and child morbidity and mortality rates (Wubshet D. et al., 2022; Gilda S. et al., 2016). Addressing these issues is essential to improving contraceptive access and achieving sustainable development goals related to health and gender equality (Wubshet D. et al., 2022).

1.3. Research Objectives

1.3.1. General objective

To assess the knowledge and factors affecting the utilization of modern contraceptives among females of child bearing age in the Molyko community

1.3.2. Specific objectives

1. To assess the knowledge on modern contraceptives among females of child bearing age in the Molyko community
2. To determine factors affecting the utilization of modern contraceptives among females of child bearing age in the Molyko community

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