Abstract

Background: Family planning refers to the ability of individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births through the use of contraceptive methods and the treatment of involuntary infertility (WHO 2020). It encompasses a wide range of methods, including modern contraceptives such as oral pills, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and hormonal implants, as well as natural family planning techniques. Africa exhibits the lowest rate of contraceptive use globally, with only 33% of women of reproductive age utilizing contraception, and the highest rate of unmet need at 22%.

Methods: The study used a Cross sectional study design using a convenient sampling technique. The study targeted individuals living in the Bonadikombo community.

Results: Findings from the study showed that, of the 100 participants recruited, 49(49.0%) of the participants were aged 18–24 years. Majority 69(69.0%) were single100 (100%) participants enrolled in this study had heard about family planning methods, most of the respondents 82(82.0%) rightly stated that family planning methods was a practice that helps individuals or couples control the number and spacing of their children 55.0% of the participants lastly used a family planning method Within the last month, while 21.0% had never used a family planning method

Conclusion: this study reveals widespread awareness of family planning methods among women of reproductive age, with condoms, pills, and IUDs being the most recognized. However, despite high knowledge levels, practical utilization remains inconsistent, influenced by recent use, personal experiences, and unresolved myths.

Recommendations: For Mothers/Women of Reproductive Age Join peer education groups to share accurate information and personal experiences about family planning methods. By openly discussing benefits (e.g., child spacing, health outcomes) and normalizing contraceptive use, mothers can help reduce stigma and misinformation within their communities.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Family planning refers to the ability of individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births through the use of contraceptive methods and the treatment of involuntary infertility (WHO 2020). It encompasses a wide range of methods, including modern contraceptives such as oral pills, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and hormonal implants, as well as natural family planning techniques. The primary objective of family planning is to empower individuals to make informed reproductive choices, thereby improving maternal and child health outcomes while contributing to overall societal well-being (UNFPA 2021)

The concept of family planning has evolved over time, with its roots tracing back to ancient civilizations where various methods, such as herbal contraceptives and barrier techniques, were used (Potts et al., 2019). However, modern family planning gained prominence in the 20th century with advancements in medical science, leading to the development of safe and effective contraceptives like oral pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and hormonal injections (Cleland et al., 2018). Today, family planning is recognized as a fundamental human right, endorsed by international agreements such as the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), which emphasized reproductive autonomy and gender equality (UNFPA, 2014).

Beyond individual health benefits, family planning has broad social and economic implications. It aids in population control, reducing the strain on resources such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, particularly in developing countries with high fertility rates (Bongaarts, 2017). Governments and international organizations have implemented various policies and programs to improve access to contraception and reproductive health services, particularly in underserved areas (International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) intrauterine devices (IUDs), UNFPA, 2020). These initiatives contribute to sustainable development by ensuring that population growth aligns with economic and environmental capacities.

As of 2021, approximately 1.1 billion women worldwide have a need for family planning, with 874 million utilizing modern contraceptive methods. Despite this, 164 million women experience an unmet need for contraception, highlighting significant gaps in access and education WHO, 2023).​ Worldwide, approximately 64% of married or in-union women of reproductive age use some form of contraception, while 12% have an unmet need for family planning services. This unmet need is notably higher in the least developed countries, where 22% of women lack access to contraceptive methods. Addressing this gap could prevent an estimated 104,000 maternal deaths annually, representing a 29% reduction in maternal mortality.

Africa exhibits the lowest rate of contraceptive use globally, with only 33% of women of reproductive age utilizing contraception, and the highest rate of unmet need at 22%. This situation contributes to high fertility rates and significant maternal and child health challenges across the continent. In sub-Saharan Africa, the adolescent birth rate is particularly concerning, with 143 births per 1,000 girls aged 15–19, underscoring the critical need for improved family planning services.

Cameroon faces significant challenges in family planning, with a contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) of only 19% among married women of reproductive age (15–49 years), according to the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) (Institut National de la Statistique [INS] & ICF, 2020). This figure is far below the Sub-Saharan African average of 33% and the global average of 64% (United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs [UN DESA], 2022). Despite increased awareness campaigns, unmet need for family planning remains high at 23%, meaning nearly one in four women who wish to delay or avoid pregnancy are not using modern contraceptives (INS & ICF, 2020). The most commonly used methods in Cameroon include injectables (8%), male condoms (5%), and oral contraceptive pills (4%), while long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as IUDs and implants remain underutilized at just 2% (Ministry of Public Health [MINSANTE], 2021).

1.2 Problem statement

Despite the significant benefits of family planning in improving maternal and child health, reducing unintended pregnancies, and promoting economic stability, its knowledge and practice remain inadequate in many communities, including Bonadikombo. Limited awareness, cultural beliefs, misconceptions, and inadequate access to contraceptive services contribute to low contraceptive prevalence and high unmet needs among women of childbearing age. According to national statistics, Cameroon’s modern contraceptive prevalence rate remains relatively low, with many women lacking accurate information on family planning methods, their benefits, and proper utilization. In the Bonadikombo community, where socio-economic and cultural factors may further influence reproductive health decisions, it is crucial to assess the level of knowledge and actual practice of family planning. Understanding these dynamics will help identify barriers to contraceptive use, inform targeted interventions, and support policies aimed at improving family planning uptake. This study, therefore, seeks to evaluate the awareness, attitudes, and utilization of family planning services among women of reproductive age in Bonadikombo community.

1.3 Rationale

This study is necessary to assess the knowledge and practice of family planning among women of reproductive age in Bonadikombo community, where contraceptive use remains low due to cultural beliefs, misconceptions, and limited access to services. Understanding these factors will help identify barriers to contraceptive uptake and inform targeted interventions. Enhancing family planning awareness and access will contribute to reducing unintended pregnancies, improving maternal health, and promoting socio-economic development.

1.4 Research questions

1. What is the level of knowledge of different family planning methods among women of reproductive age in Bonadikombo?
2. What are the family planning practices adopted by women of reproductive age in Bonadikombo?
3. What are the Challenges faced towards utilization of family planning methods among women of reproductive age at the Bonadikombo community?

Check out: Nursing Project Topics with Materials