Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Contraception Amongst Women and Female Youths in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study aims at documenting the awareness, approach and use of contraception amongst women and female youths in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. 100 respondents; 60 female youths and 40 women aged within 18-45 years were cross-examined using a structured questionnaire and informal dialogues. Data gathered were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools. Results show that respondents between ages 23 and 27 (female youths and young married women) attending higher institutions were most represented in this study. The majority (85 %) had knowledge of contraception methods, 66% were sexually active but 80 % depended on safe periods as a method of contraception. Amongst the illiterate older married women, 87 % depend on friends for information on contraception methods to use; which in most cases are inappropriate as they frequently suffer an irregular bleeding side effect from contraception use. In conclusion, the knowledge, attitude and use of contraception are fair amongst female youths and women in Mararaba, Nasarawa State. There is a dire need for an accessible center for female youths and illiterate women to get a proper guide on contraception devices to reduce unnecessary side-effects suffered because of unhealthy counsel from unprofessional friends. Abstinence for unmarried female youths and reduced use of contraception by sexually active female youths is recommended.