Utilization of family planning services in a Nigerian tertiary hospital: a six year review

Context: Family planning is an integral part of maternal health as its uptake is a significant factor in the reduction of maternal mortality and in ensuring positive child health outcomes.Objectives: To describe prevalence and pattern of contraceptive use, and identify reasons for discontinuation among women accessing family planning facilities.Study design: A six year retrospective review of hospital records of new family planning clinic clients at the teaching hospital was conducted. Data was obtained from the client cards and proportions expressed as simple percentages.Results: A total of 1,284 clients accepted a family planning method during the period. Contraceptive prevalence rate in relation to hospital deliveries was 18·1%. Modal age group of clients was 31–40(50.4%), while modal parity was Para 2-3 (43·4%). A third of the clients sought contraception within 6 months of delivery. Intrauterine contraceptive device was the most common method (65.0%). Information on family planning was mainly from nurses (66.7%). Contraceptive discontinuation rate was 21.2%, mainly due to desire for another pregnancy (62%). Menstrual irregularity and husband's decision were some other reasons.Conclusion: There is an identified need for promotion of uptake of family planning methods. Involvement of men in contraception counselling and services is essential to improve its uptake and continuity.Keywords: Family planning, contraceptives, Ile-Ife, Nigeri