CONTRACEPTIVE USE AND FAMILY SIZE DETERMINATION IN MAKURDI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENUE STATE-NIGERIA
Margaret Bai-Tachia, PhD and Yiga Sadi Helen, PhD
Volume 11 Issue 1
Abstract
The study examined contraceptive use and its effects on family size determination in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State. The specific objectives were to assess the contraceptive methods, the rate of usage of contraceptive methods, the factors influencing the use of contraceptives, the effects of contraceptives use on family size and the challenges of contraceptive use in Makurdi Local Government Area. The study adopted Theory of Health Belief Model. Data was gathered from 400 respondents using questionnaire. The data generated was analysed quantitatively. The study found out that the level of knowledge of contraceptive methods was high, but the rate of usage was low. Factors influencing the use of contraceptives were socio-cultural, economic and geographical factors. It was also found that, contraceptive use affect family size in Makurdi Local Government Area. The study recommends that government at all levels, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), influential individuals in society, social workers, medical sociologists and religious leaders should intensify efforts to increase sensitization and enlightenment of women and the general public on the benefits of uptake of contraceptives. This can be achieved by sponsoring campaigns through the mass media, organizing talk shows, organizing short plays and dramas, sponsoring of bill boards that will display benefits and the effects of not using contraceptives in the communities. Keywords: Contraceptive, Contraceptive Use, Family, Family Size, Makurdi
Download Paper