UTILIZATION OF MODERN FAMILY PLANNING METHODS AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN A RURAL SETTING: THE CASE OF SHINYANGA RURAL DISTRICT, TANZANIA

Objective: This study investigated prevalence and determinants of modern family planning practice among women in Shinyanga rural district, Tanzania Methods: A contraceptive prevalence survey was conducted among 271 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) from six villages in the district. Data was collected using an interview administered structured questionnaire. Information gathered included socio-demographic characteristics, parity, family size, knowledge of modern family planning methods as well as current use of the methods. Results: Modern family planning methods were generally known, with the pill being the most commonly mentioned method (81.2 percent) followed by the injectable type (76.8%). More than half of the women (56.5 percent) had low level of knowledge of the methods and the use rate was low, 12.2 percent. Respondents' religious denomination, their levels of knowledge of the methods as well as communication between spouses regarding family planning issues were significantly associated with contraceptive use (p < 0.05). Conclusion: We conclude that it is imperative for reproductive health programmes to intensify efforts in improving women's knowledge of modern FP methods and encourage partner communication in order to raise contraceptive prevalence rate. In addition, further studies are necessary to identify other potential factors facilitating use of modern FP methods among rural women