AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE AS PREDICTORS TO UTILIZATION OF CONTRACEPTIVES AMONG RURAL WOMEN IN MAKOKO, LAGOS, NIGERIA
Abstract
Globally, a significant proportion of women, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, face unmet needs for family planning, with many lacking adequate knowledge about contraceptive methods. In rural areas like Makoko, Lagos, Nigeria, this issue is compounded by limited awareness and education about contraception, leading to low utilization rates.
This study examines the influence of awareness and knowledge as predictors of contraceptive use among women in Makoko, Lagos. The objectives of the study was to find the level of awareness on the use of contraceptive among rural women in Makoko, Lagos; ascertain major sources of information on contraceptive use among rural women in Makoko, Lagos; find out the level of contraceptive utilization among women in Makoko, Lagos; investigate the attitude of rural women in Makoko, Lagos towards the utilization of contraceptives.
Using a sample of 399 married women in the area, the research finds that while awareness of contraceptive pills is high, other methods like condoms and injectables remain poorly understood. The study highlights radio and social media as key sources of information. It also uncovers positive attitudes toward contraception, though barriers such as social norms and partner opposition persist.
The findings recommend that targeted educational programs, leveraging mass media, and addressing social-cultural barriers can significantly improve contraceptive use. This research underscores the critical role of knowledge and awareness in enhancing reproductive health outcomes and family planning in rural Nigerian communities.
Key Words: Awareness, Knowledge, Predictors, Utilization, Contraceptives
Word Count: 229
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