Factors associated with low utilization of female condoms as a birth control method among women of reproductive age (15 – 49 years) in Nabbanda, Chirundu district, Zambia.
Date
2023
Authors
Kabwela, Isaac
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia.
Abstract
The study intends to establish factors associated with low utilization of female condoms as a birth control method among women of reproductive age (15 – 49 years) in Nabbanda, Chirundu district, Zambia.” and what can be done to resolve this. A case study will be used which will involve
application of qualitative methods. A sample of 159 participants will be drawn from the population. The sample size for this study will consist of female respondents of child bearing age in the range of 15 – 49 years. All women aged 15-49 who attend clinic at Nabbanda are all invited
to participate in the study and it’s the choice of the participant whether to participate or not therefore participation in this study is entirely voluntary.
The study found that the knowledge levels of the Nabbanda residents on the female condom was average due to inadequate information on the female condom and its use as well as lack of proper female condom promotion. While the attitudes towards its use were not favorable mainly due to
unavailability, preference of male condom use, power relations between men and women in a relationship, insertion of the female condom being a hassle and it looking weird. Additionally under service delivery there is inability to open up to health care workers. While due to myths and misconception there is a belief that using a condom reduces intimacy with their partner and belief that condoms make men weak. It is therefore recommended that government and all interested stakeholders should increase efforts at female condom education, promotion, availability and access. It is vital that these are done in order to increase the possibility of high utilization of these condoms and if people are very knowledgeable about female condoms this can lead to improvement in service delivery by making them free to ask for one and also enables them to clear any myth or misconception associated with these condoms hence more people being able to use them.
Description
Thesis of the Masters in Public Health.