Wahidullah Sediqi

ABSTRACT

Background: Aim of the current study is to find out the prevalence rate of family planning users in 6 districts in (Kabul province) and factors associated with low utilization of family planning methods. And also to find out what percentage of women at reproductive age (15-49 years) using Family planning methods and to identify the passable barriers to wards utilization of the FP at targeted area . Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in 6 districts (4, 6, 8, 12, 13, 16) of Kabul city and 360 married women aged between 15-49 years were included in this study. Along with the socio demographic characteristics of the women, their knowledge, attitude and practices on contraception were evaluated with the help of predesigned questionnaire. Results: It was observed that out of 360 women, majority of them had the knowledge about family planning methods 326 ( 90%), and 263(73%) were currently using modern family planning methods. Intra Uterine device was commonly used among the participants 74(28%) followed by condom and OCP. None of the participants reported of any permanent methods if they have used. The main source of obtaining contraceptives has been reported by the participants to be pharmacies followed by Government and Marie Stopes Clinics. Husband’s opposition is one of the main reason behind women not using any contraceptive methods. Conclusions: In spite of having good knowledge about family planning methods & positive attitude there are some factors like desire for large family, pressure from husband, religious concern etc, lead to non-use of contraceptives. So this is important to improve educational status of the female and their husbands to overcome these barriers and increase the uptake of modern contraceptive methods.