Utilization and discontinuation of contraceptive methods: the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) experience

Abstract

Background Contraception has an important role to play in reducing the

high rate of maternal morbidity and mortality in developing countries.

Objective The objective is to determine the prevalence rate, methods

and reasons for discontinuation of contraceptive methods at UCTH,

Calabar.

Method This was a retrospective study of all clients that utilised different

forms of contraceptives at UCTH, Calabar from 1st January, 2009 to 31st

December, 2013.

Results A total of 5,381 clients used various methods of contraception

while 13,492 live births were recorded giving the prevalence rate of 39.9%

of total live birth. Common methods were intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) 1,745(32.8%) and

injectable contraceptives 1,268(23.8%). Most clients 1,876(35.2%) were graduates while 81(1.5%) had no

formal education. A total of 535(10.1%) clients discontinued different family planning method commonly

due to desire for pregnancy and side effects. IUCD had the highest discontinuation rate.

Conclusion The study revealed low prevalence rate of contraceptive use which was more among teenagers

and illiterate women. The main reasons for discontinuation of different methods were desire for

pregnancy, side effects and menopause. Creating more contraceptive awareness, improvement in

contraceptive counselling and female education will help to improve contraceptive utilisation rate and

reduce discontinuation rate.