Prevalence and Determinants of Contraceptive Use among Married Men and Women of Reproductive Age Living in Rural Areas of Kyainseikgyi Township, Karen State, Myanmar

Abstract

Contraceptive use have positive impact on maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes and the rates of the contraceptive usage are increasing in developing countries including Myanmar. However, there are settings in remote areas lack of the modern contraceptive knowledge and practices due to the geographic location and the unstable politics of the country. Between July and August 2019, I have conducted a cross-sectional survey among the couples of age between 15-49 years from the Karen community residing in Kyainseikgyi Township, Karen State, Myanmar. Respondents were selected using convenience sampling method at their households and data collection was done using a semi-structured questionnaire through face to face interview to the participants. This study aims to assess the prevalence of contraceptive use and to determine the factors that determine uptake of contraceptive services to inform effective programming. In total 200 participants were recruited from 5 villages. Their mean age was 35 (mean± SD, 35±8.01) years. From the socio-demographic factors, determinants of contraceptive usage after adjusted odd ratios were age groups, having more number of living children. From the knowledge and attitude factors, the determinant was positive attitude towards contraception and the respondents who said the price of was not expensive were observed higher use of contraceptive methods. Additionally from the perceived need factors, the determinants of contraceptive usage were the need of services and information from both the government and NGOs. It was found that high numbers of the village residents know the contraceptives but the level of contraceptive usage is still low within the region. Among 200 participants, 175(87.5%) reported knowing the contraception but 72 (36%) just reported currently using any contraceptive methods. To further enhance utilization of contraception to improve maternal and child health outcomes in this setting, the effective awareness programs from both the government and NGOs related to family planning and more of the family planning methods should be introduced as well. Most importantly that, obstacles related to contraceptive availability should be addressed.