Background of the Study
Postpartum contraceptive use is critical for maternal and child health, helping women prevent unintended pregnancies and ensuring optimal birth spacing. Family planning during the postpartum period reduces maternal mortality, minimizes complications related to closely spaced pregnancies, and enhances child survival rates (WHO, 2024). Globally, health organizations recommend that women space pregnancies by at least 24 months to lower risks associated with short interpregnancy intervals. Despite these benefits, postpartum contraceptive use remains low in many regions, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
In Adamawa State, maternal health indicators reveal a significant burden of unintended pregnancies and maternal complications due to low contraceptive uptake. The postpartum period presents a critical opportunity to introduce family planning, yet many women either lack awareness or face barriers to accessing contraception. Social, cultural, and religious beliefs often discourage contraceptive use, with many women relying on traditional methods or abstinence, which may be ineffective in preventing pregnancies (Yusuf et al., 2024). Additionally, healthcare providers may not adequately counsel new mothers on postpartum contraception, further limiting uptake.
Factors such as education, socio-economic status, spousal influence, and healthcare accessibility play crucial roles in determining postpartum contraceptive use. Research has shown that where postpartum family planning services are integrated into maternal care, contraceptive adoption increases significantly. However, in Adamawa State, gaps persist in service delivery, leading to low utilization rates.
This study investigates postpartum contraceptive use among new mothers in Adamawa State, assessing knowledge, practices, and barriers to family planning adoption. By examining these factors, the research aims to provide insights into improving postpartum contraceptive uptake and ensuring better maternal and child health outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the availability of modern contraceptive methods, postpartum contraceptive use remains low among new mothers in Adamawa State. Many women leave healthcare facilities after childbirth without adequate information on family planning, leading to short interpregnancy intervals and increased health risks. The unmet need for contraception in the postpartum period contributes to high maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates (Okonjo et al., 2024).
Several factors contribute to this issue, including lack of awareness, fear of side effects, cultural beliefs, and male partner disapproval. Additionally, the integration of postpartum family planning counseling into maternal healthcare services is inconsistent, leaving many women without necessary guidance. Without effective interventions, the cycle of closely spaced pregnancies will continue, exacerbating health risks for mothers and their children.
This study seeks to investigate postpartum contraceptive use among new mothers in Adamawa State, examining factors that influence uptake and barriers to accessibility. Findings from this research will contribute to strategies aimed at improving postpartum family planning services in the state.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of awareness and knowledge of postpartum contraception among new mothers in Adamawa State.
To examine the factors influencing postpartum contraceptive uptake.
To identify barriers hindering the use of postpartum contraceptive methods.
Research Questions
What is the level of awareness and knowledge of postpartum contraception among new mothers in Adamawa State?
What factors influence postpartum contraceptive uptake among new mothers?
What are the major barriers preventing postpartum contraceptive use?
Research Hypotheses
Higher levels of postpartum contraceptive awareness lead to increased uptake among new mothers.
Socio-cultural and religious factors significantly influence postpartum contraceptive use.
Lack of spousal support negatively affects postpartum contraceptive adoption.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on new mothers within the first year postpartum in selected healthcare facilities in Adamawa State. It will assess their contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Limitations may include reluctance to discuss personal contraceptive use and potential bias in self-reported data.
Definitions of Terms
Postpartum contraception: The use of family planning methods after childbirth to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Birth spacing: The interval between one pregnancy and the next.
Unmet contraceptive need: The percentage of women who want to avoid pregnancy but are not using any contraceptive method.
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