A Comparative Analysis of Contraceptive Use Among Married and Unmarried Reproductive-Aged Women in Rural Northern Ghana: Implications for Sexual and Reproductive Health Interventions

Edmund Kanmiki
Patrick Opoku Asuming, University of Ghana
Charles Asabere, University of Ghana, Regional Institute for Population Studies
James Akazili, Navrongo Health Research Centre
John Awoonor-Williams, Ghana Health Service
James F. Phillips, Columbia University
Ayaga A. Bawah , University of Ghana

This paper performs a comparative analysis of determinants of contraceptive use among married and unmarried women in a rural setting of Ghana. Population-based cross-sectional data from 7,242 women between 15-49 years was used. The prevalence and determinants of contraceptive use were assessed and compared using descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate regression models. Contraceptive use rate was 17%. Among married women; educational level, occupation, partners place of stay, parity, and ability to refuse sex without consequence were factors that significantly predict contraceptive use (p-value <0.05). On the other hand, age and religious affiliation were significantly associated with contraceptive use for unmarried women (p-value<0.05). However, factors significantly associated with contraceptive use for both married and unmarried respondents was district of residence and knowledge of where to obtain contraceptives (p-value <0.05). Interventions aimed at improving contraceptive use should be mindful of the influencing factors identified by this study and how they differ between married and unmarried

See extended abstract

 Presented in Session 1. Fertility, Family Planning, Sexual Behavior, & Reproductive Health 1