ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECT OF CONTRACEPTIVES ON THE HEALTH OF WOMEN OF CHILD BEARING AGE IN SABON GARI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE

ABSTRACT This study assessed the effects of hormonal contraceptives on the health of women of childbearing age in Sabon Gari Local Government Area, Kaduna State. Specifically, it sought to examine the 11 impact of hormonal contraceptives on physical health, evaluate their psychological effects, and assess reproductive health outcomes among these women. A total of 50 women were selected for the study using multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected with the aid of questionnaire and interviews. Descriptive statistics (mean, percentages and Likert scale) and inferential statistic (chi-square) were used for data analysis. The hypothesis was tested at 0.05 significant level. The results obtained revealed that most of the participants were married and between the ages of 26 and 30 years. Majority were secondary school graduates and full-time housewives, with knowledge of birth control pill usage. While 60% of respondents reported experiencing changes in their menstrual cycle, the study also found out that majority did not experience any increase in blood pressure, headaches/migraines, or skin conditions as a result of contraceptive use. Furthermore, most respondents believed that contraceptive use did not affect their sleep patterns, cognitive function, or emotional state. Additionally, Most of the respondents had never experienced unintended pregnancies, changes in fertility awareness, difficulty conceiving, menstrual pain/cramping, vaginal health changes, or been diagnosed with any reproductive health concerns due to contraceptive use. The results from the hypotheses (H01, H02, H03) indicated that although contraceptives have some effects on physical health, mental and emotional well-being, and reproductive health outcomes, these effects are minor and not statistically significant.