KNOWLEDGE OF FAMILY PLANNING METHODS AMONG MARRIED COUPLES IN OKEDOUGBON PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER OWO ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigates the level of knowledge and awareness of family planning methods among married couples in Okedougbon primary health centers Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. Family planning is a critical component of public health that contributes to improved maternal and child health, economic stability, and population management. Despite various national and local initiatives to promote contraceptive use, many couples especially in semi-urban and rural settings still face barriers such as misinformation, cultural beliefs, and inadequate access to reliable reproductive health education. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted for this study. A total of 100 married couples were selected using a multistage sampling technique that ensured representation across different wards within the local government area. Data were collected through structured interviewer-administered questionnaires designed to assess general awareness, specific knowledge of various family planning methods (such as oral contraceptives, injectables, implants, intrauterine devices, condoms, and natural methods), perceived benefits and risks, and factors influencing usage. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, and cross-tabulations. Findings revealed that while the majority of respondents had heard about family planning, there were significant gaps in detailed knowledge about the various methods, their effectiveness, and potential side effects. Common sources of information included health workers, radio programs, and religious gatherings. However, misinformation and myths such as beliefs that contraceptives cause infertility or cancer were still prevalent among a portion of the population. Educational attainment, religious affiliation, and the quality of spousal communication were identified as major determinants of knowledge levels and willingness to adopt family planning methods. The study concludes that although awareness of family planning is relatively high, comprehensive knowledge remains limited among married couples in Owo LGA. It recommends strengthening grassroots health education, promoting spousal communication, and involving religious and community leaders in awareness campaigns. Enhancing the role of trained healthcare providers in offering accurate, culturally sensitive information is also crucial for improving uptake and informed decision-making in family planning.