FACTOR INFLUENCING UPTAKE OF MODERN FAMILY PLANNING AMONG WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING IN OWO METROPOLIS.

Background: Maternal and child health problems continue to be a major global concern due to the high mortality and morbidity associated with it in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with low uptake of family planning. This study assesses the factors influencing uptake of modern family planning among women of child bearing age in Owo metropolis. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study involving 400 women within 15-45 year age group participated. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 28.0 and results presented in table and charts. Results: Mean age of 32+/-2.45SD; predominantly consist of Christians (69.5%), Yoruba ethnicity (65.3%), and married individuals (81.0%). A significant portion is graduates (41.0%), and more than half earn above #30,000 monthly (53.3%). Majority (87%) in this study had good knowledge of modern family planning but uptake was low (93%). husband influence (COR-1.942, P-value 0.000) and fear of the side effects (1.727, P-value = 0.001) were significantly associated with uptake of family planning among participants. Also educational level and relationship were associated with uptake of family planning at 0.05 significant levels. Conclusions: The study reveals that despite of fair knowledge, majority of women had poor uptake mainly due to husband influence and side effect of the family planning. Thus, there is need for aggressive advocacy about female reproductive health with dissemination of information about family planning methods with men inclusive. Keywords: Knowledge, Uptake, Modern Family Planning, Women of Child Bearing Age, Owo Metropolis