Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing the use of modern contraceptives among couples in the Ndongo Community, Buea, Cameroon. Despite a high level of awareness about family planning methods, contraceptive uptake remains low, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 100 married men and women aged 18-49 to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding contraceptives. Results indicated that 52% of participants had adequate knowledge about modern contraceptives, with health facilities being the primary source of information.

Cultural beliefs and partner dynamics significantly hindered contraceptive use, while education emerged as a crucial factor influencing uptake. The study highlights the need for targeted educational initiatives and improved access to family planning services.

Recommendations include community outreach programs, enhanced provider training, and the integration of contraceptive education into healthcare services. By addressing these barriers, the research aims to contribute to improved reproductive health outcomes and empower couples in their family planning decisions. The findings underscore the importance of understanding local socio-cultural contexts to inform effective family planning policies.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Knowledge of family planning is nearly universal with 95% for both men and women between the ages of 15 to 49 years knowing at least one method of modern family planning (Malone et al, 2010). Family planning is achieved through the use of contraceptive methods and treatment of involuntary infertility. The various conversional contraceptives (CC) methods available are hormonal and non-hormonal methods. Contraception means the prevention of conception (Denise,2010). Contraception is as old as mankind; it started since in the old testament with Onan who spilled his semen in the ground whenever he had sex with his brother’s wife because he avoiding to give offspring to his brother.

Most countries with the lowest rate of contraceptives use experience the higher maternal infant and child mortality rate and higher fertility rate in Africa (WHO, 2012). Each year, 180-200millions pregnancies are reported all over the world. About 75%t of these pregnancies are undesired with the result that, about 50 million ends to induce abortion.

WHO (2012) estimated that about 20 million of the total number of induced abortion are at risk for the mother. WHO (2013) equally postulated that, approximately 600000 women die each year because of pregnancy and delivery related complications, that is about one maternal death per minute. Up to 95-98% of these deaths occurred in developing countries where the risk of dying during pregnancy is compounded by a high number of pregnancies per women, poor socio-economic conditions and inadequacy of maternal care services in the countries.

Worldwide, the percentage of couple currently using contraception is estimated to have reached 58% and the level of use is higher in the more developed region than in the less developed regions (WHO, 2013). While overall levels of contraceptive use remain higher in the more developed regions the gap is narrowing (Rimal, 2008). However, in the group of least developed countries traditional methods of contraception account for 27% of all contraception use, a proportion far higher than that in the more developed regions (UNFPA, 2015).

Modern contraception plays a vital role in empowering individuals and couples to make informed decisions about family planning and reproductive health. According to the World Health Organization (2020), access to modern contraceptive methods not only helps to prevent unintended pregnancies but also enhances maternal and child health outcomes. Despite the availability of various contraceptive methods, the uptake remains low in many regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (UNFPA, 2019). Factors such as cultural beliefs, economic barriers, and lack of education significantly influence contraceptive use among couples (Mekonnen & Kassa, 2020).

In Cameroon, the use of modern contraceptives has shown gradual growth over the years, although the prevalence remains relatively low compared to global standards. According to the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey, the contraceptive prevalence rate among married women was approximately 30%, indicating a modest increase from previous years (Institut National de la Statistique, 2019). Despite this progress, significant disparities exist between urban and rural areas, with urban women more likely to access and utilize modern contraceptive methods. Factors such as geographic location, educational attainment, and economic status play crucial roles in influencing contraceptive behavior, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.

Cultural attitudes and partner dynamics also play a significant role in shaping contraceptive decisions. Research by Sharma and Rijal (2019) found that women’s autonomy and decision-making power within households are critical determinants of contraceptive use. In many communities, disapproval from partners can deter women from using contraceptives, leading to unplanned pregnancies and related health risks (Amoakoh & Mazzucato, 2019). Consequently, addressing these relational dynamics is essential for improving contraceptive uptake among couples.

Moreover, socio-demographic factors such as education and occupation significantly impact contraceptive behavior. Studies have shown that women with higher educational attainment are more likely to use modern contraceptives compared to those with lower education levels (Kumar & Singh, 2020). Additionally, employment status has been associated with contraceptive use; unemployed women often face more barriers in accessing family planning services (Osei & Agyeman, 2021). Thus, exploring these socio-demographic influences will provide a comprehensive understanding of modern contraceptive utilization in the Ndongo community.

Statement of the Problem

The use of modern contraceptives remains a critical issue in sub-Saharan Africa, including Cameroon, where low uptake persists despite the availability of family planning services (Institut National de la Statistique [INS], 2018). In Buea, the prevalence of modern contraceptive use is particularly low, with many couples relying on traditional methods or no contraception at all (Tarkang & Mbi, 2019). This low uptake contributes to high rates of unintended pregnancies, maternal mortality, and poor child health outcomes, which are prevalent in the region (WHO, 2020). Addressing these challenges is essential for improving reproductive health and achieving sustainable development goals in the community.

Several factors hinder the use of modern contraceptives in many communities in Cameroon, including limited knowledge, cultural beliefs, and gender dynamics (Njotang et al., 2016). Many couples lack adequate information about the benefits and proper use of modern contraceptives, leading to misconceptions and fear of side effects (Asonganyi et al., 2017). Additionally, cultural norms and religious beliefs often discourage contraceptive use, with some viewing it as morally unacceptable or against traditional values. These barriers highlight the need for targeted interventions to address knowledge gaps and cultural resistance.

Socioeconomic factors also play a significant role in shaping contraceptive behavior in many communities in Cameroon. Poverty and low educational attainment limit access to and acceptance of modern contraceptives, particularly among women (Fotso et al., 2013). Women with higher education and income levels are more likely to use contraceptives, while those in rural areas face greater barriers due to limited healthcare infrastructure. These disparities underscore the importance of addressing socioeconomic inequalities to improve family planning outcomes in the community. Thus, this study sought to fill the gap by identifying the factors influencing the use of modern contraceptives among couples in the Ndongo Community Buea

Rational of the Study

The rationale for this study is to address the persistent low uptake of modern contraceptives among couples in the Ndongo Community, despite their availability. Understanding the factors influencing contraceptive use, including knowledge gaps, sociocultural barriers, and socio-demographic influences, is critical for improving family planning outcomes. This study aims to provide evidence-based insights to inform targeted interventions, enhance reproductive health education, and promote gender-sensitive policies. By addressing these issues, the study seeks to reduce unintended pregnancies, improve maternal and child health, and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the community.

Research Questions

1. What is the level of knowledge about various modern contraceptives among couples in the Ndongo community?
2. What factors hinder the use of modern contraceptives among couples in the Ndongo community?
3. How do socio-demographic characteristics of couples in the Ndongo community affect their uptake of modern contraceptives?

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