ASSESSING THE FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR NON-UTILIZATION OF CONTRACEPTIVES AMONG MOTHERS ATTENDING FAMILY HEALTH CLINIC IN JOS UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (JUTH)

: The increasing population of the world resulted to the advent of contraceptive use in the world at large. This is because of the adverse effect that was arising from this present condition experienced especially by third world countries. Nigeria being the most populous country in sub-saharan Africa which makes it a focus for increasing contraceptive usage has a high total fertility rate (TFR), estimated to be 5.07 for women of reproductive age (15-49) with a low uptake of contraceptives. Evidence from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey indicates that only about 15 percent of sexually active women currently practice effective contraception Objectives: The objectives of this study includes; to assess the knowledge of contraceptive methods, to determine the level of contraceptive usage and to assess the factors responsible for non-utilization of contraceptives among mothers attending family health clinic in Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH). Method: A cross sectional study design was employed to determine the knowledge, rate of contraceptive utilization and the various reasons for the non-utilization of contraceptives among 218 respondents selected by a systematic sampling technique in family health clinic of Jos University teaching hospital using a semi-structured interviewer questionnaire. Information concerning the knowledge, uptake and reasons for non-utilization of contraceptives was obtained. Data was analysed using Epi Info statistical software and results were presented as tables. Chi square was used to test association between qualitative variables. Results: Majority, 200 (91.7%) of the respondents are within the age group of 20 - 30 years and above, most 207 (95.0%) of them have attained at least secondary level of education and above. Majority, 213 (97.7%) of the respondents are aware of one form of contraceptive method or the other, 210 (96.3%) know where to get contraceptives, 160 (73.4%) have used one form of contraceptive method or the other. Two common methods used are; condom / barrier method, 74 (46.0%) and injectables, 33 (20.5%). Currently, 47.7% are using contraceptives, among which 87 (39.9%) are using modern method. Two common method in current usage are; injectables, 34 (32.7%) and implants 17 (16.3%). The main reasons for contraceptive usage are; child spacing, 62 (59.6%) and prevention of unwanted pregnancy, 42 (40.4%). Four main reasons for non-utilization of contraceptives are; fear of side effects, 159 (72.9%), lack of knowledge on how to use it properly, 85 (39.0%), proximity to source, 50 (22.9%) and spouse / partner's disapproval, 49 (22.5%). Respondents level of education and religious affiliation are the main factors that were found to influence the uptake / utilization of contraceptives. Conclusion: This study showed that, despite the high awareness about contraceptives, the uptake is relatively low compared to the rate in developed countries. Factors like religious affiliation and awareness of contraceptives have statistically significant association with contraceptive uptake and the reasons for its non-utilization. There is a strong need to enhance proper counseling of mothers on issues regarding contraceptives in order to eliminate misinformation concerning contraceptive usage and its side effects. The counselling should also pass the right information on the proper utilization of contraceptives and its overall benefits.