1.1 Introduction
Family planning is a critical aspect of public health and socio-economic development, directly influencing women's health, family welfare, and overall societal progress. According to WHO (2018), the perception of married women towards family planning methods is not only influenced by personal and cultural factors but also by the quality of healthcare services and the attitudes of healthcare providers. Studies have shown that positive interactions with healthcare providers and the availability of comprehensive family planning services can significantly improve women's acceptance and consistent use of contraceptives (WHO, 2018).
Research indicates that women's knowledge about the variety of available contraceptive methods significantly affects their choices and usage patterns. Education and awareness campaigns are pivotal in enhancing women's understanding and acceptance of family planning options. Additionally, the support and involvement of male partners are crucial, as spousal approval often plays a significant role in the decision-making process related to contraception (USAID, 2012). In many cultures, married women bear the primary responsibility for family planning decisions. Their perceptions and attitudes towards different contraceptive methods are shaped by a complex interplay of personal preferences, and accessibility of health services. These factors collectively impact their willingness to adopt and continue using specific family planning methods.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
In the early 21st century, the perception of family planning further evolved as part of a broader reproductive health framework. This integrated approach emphasized the importance of comprehensive reproductive health services, including education, maternal health, and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections. The Millennium Development Goals and later the Sustainable Development Goals highlighted the critical role of family planning in achieving gender equality, and improving health outcomes (UNFPA, 2014). The perception of married women regarding family planning methods is a critical area of study due to its significant implications for public health, demographic trends, and socio-economic development. Family planning enables individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births. This is achieved through the use of contraceptive methods and the treatment of involuntary infertility. Effective family planning is associated with a range of benefits, including improved maternal and child health, enhanced family well-being, and broader economic and social development (Cleland et al., 2006).
Despite the recognized benefits of family planning, the uptake and continuation of contraceptive methods vary widely among married women across different regions and socio-economic contexts. Several factors contribute to these variations, including levels of awareness, accessibility of family planning services, cultural and religious beliefs, and the influence of spouses and family members.
Casterline et al., (2000) asserted that knowledge and awareness about family planning methods play a crucial role in shaping women's perceptions and decisions. Studies have shown that women who are well-informed about the range of available contraceptive options are more likely to use them effectively (Casterline et al., 2000). However, misinformation and lack of awareness remain significant barriers in many communities. Educational initiatives aimed at increasing knowledge about family planning can therefore have a substantial impact on contraceptive use.
Darroch et al., (2011) articulated that access to quality family planning services is another critical factor affecting women's perceptions. Geographic, economic, and social barriers can limit access to these services, particularly in low-resource settings. The availability of a variety of contraceptive methods, along with supportive healthcare providers, can enhance women's ability to choose and continue using the most appropriate methods for their circumstances (Darroch et al., 2011).
According to USAID (2012), the role of spouses and family members is also significant in shaping married women's perceptions of family planning. In many settings, husbands and other family members, such as mothers-in-law, have considerable influence over reproductive decisions. Positive spousal communication and support are associated with higher contraceptive use and greater satisfaction with family planning methods (USAID, 2012). World Health Organization (2002) stated that conceptive is a drug or device used to prevent woman from getting pregnant, this can sometimes be called birth control according to (FPA) Family Planning Association. It is discussed as a special device that prevents fertilization of egg in the ovum by special device used to limit reproduction, which provide a safe and effective way to regulate fertility of the womb. An individual, his spouse, and their offspring comprise a family.
Should Gribble, J. (2008) indicate that a family's contentment is associated with its size, a guy ought to choose a course of action that will not only enhance the family's well-being but also satisfy his ambition to support a family. He needs to take part in family planning since no man would rather spend his money on unsatisfactory education, amusement, or a decent and comfortable home for the family than on bills for medical care, child care, or sickness. Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the perception of married women of family planning method in Abi Local Government Area.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many women are unaware of the full range of contraceptive options available and their respective benefits and side effects. This knowledge gap can lead to misconceptions and fear about the use of contraception, ultimately impacting the decision-making process (Cleland et al., 2006). More so, the dissemination of inaccurate information through informal channels can reinforce these misconceptions and create additional barriers to effective family planning.
Furthermore, negative experiences with healthcare providers and health system barriers can significantly impact women's perceptions of family planning. Instances of provider bias, judgmental attitudes, and lack of respect for patient autonomy can deter women from seeking family planning services. Ensuring that healthcare providers are well-trained, empathetic, and respectful is vital for creating a supportive environment for family planning (WHO, 2018).
Moving forward, the access to quality family planning services remains a substantial problem, particularly in low-resource settings. Geographic, economic, and systemic barriers can prevent married women from obtaining the contraceptive methods they need. Issues such as the availability of a limited range of contraceptives, stockouts, and the absence of trained healthcare providers further exacerbate the situation (Darroch et al., 2011). Additionally, the lack of privacy and confidentiality in healthcare settings can deter women from using family planning services.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to explore the perception of married women of family planning method in Abi Local Government Area. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To evaluate the level of knowledge and awareness among married women about different family planning methods and their respective benefits and side effects;
- To examine how cultural and religious beliefs impact married women's attitudes and decisions regarding the use of family planning methods;
- To investigate the accessibility and quality of family planning services available to married women, including geographic, economic, and systemic barriers.
- To assess the role of spouses and other family members in influencing married women's perceptions and decisions about family planning; and
- To identify health system barriers and healthcare provider attitudes that affect the acceptance and use of family planning methods among married women.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- Are there barriers in health system that affects the acceptance and use of family planning methods among married women?
- Does cultural and religious beliefs impact married women's attitudes and decisions regarding the use of family planning methods?
- What is the level of knowledge and awareness among married women about different family planning methods and their respective benefits and side effects?
- What is the role of spouses and other family members in influencing married women's perceptions and decisions about family planning?
- What is the accessibility and quality of family planning services available to married women, including geographic, economic, and systemic barriers?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H01: Married women with higher levels of education and awareness about family planning methods are more likely to have positive perceptions and higher usage rates of contraception compared to those with lower levels of education and awareness
- H02: Married women with better access to quality family planning services, including a variety of contraceptive options and supportive healthcare providers, have more favorable perceptions and higher utilization rates of family planning methods.
1.7 Significance of Study
The findings of this research on family planning services will be significant in the following ways, which are stated as follows:
- Improving Reproductive Health Outcomes: Perception of married women of family planning method is crucial for improving reproductive health outcomes, including reducing unintended pregnancies, and maternal mortality.
- Advancing Gender Equality: Access to family planning services is closely linked to gender equality, as it empowers individuals, particularly women, to make autonomous decisions about their reproductive lives. By promoting gender-equitable access to family planning services, this study contributes to broader efforts to advance gender equality and women's empowerment.
- Fulfilling Reproductive Rights: Access to family planning services is recognized as a fundamental human right, as articulated in international agreements such as the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). This study seeks to uphold individuals' reproductive rights by identifying barriers to access and advocating for policies and interventions that promote universal access to reproductive health care.
- Reducing Health Inequities: Disparities in access to family planning services contribute to health inequities, particularly among marginalized populations. By addressing barriers to access and promoting equity-focused interventions, this study aims to reduce health disparities and ensure that all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location, have equal access to essential reproductive health care.
- Informing Policy and Practice: The findings of this study have the potential to inform policy development and programmatic efforts aimed at strengthening family planning services globally. By providing evidence-based recommendations and best practices, this study can guide policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders in designing and implementing effective interventions to bridge gaps in family planning services.
1.8 Scope of the Study
The scope of the research is focused on Perception of Married Women of Family Planning Method in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.10 Definition of Terms
Family planning:
It refers to the practice of controlling the number of children rural women has and the interims between their births, mostly by means of contraception or voluntary sterilization so to improve family planning services and practices.
Factors:
They are elements that brings about certain effects or results and also what could cause rural women not to embrace family planning services
Methods:
They are procedures for accomplishing or approaching something or systematic way of involving women in rural area into family planning and established effectiveness of family planning.
Contraceptives:
This refers to the several family planning methods that are available for use in controlling birth example; oral contraceptive pill, intrauterine contraceptive device etc.
Married Women:
Married women are females who are legally married and living with their spouses. This term is used to distinguish from single or unmarried women, as marital status can significantly influence reproductive health decisions and access to family planning services (Gubhaju, 2009).
Health System Barriers:
Health system barriers are obstacles within the healthcare system that impede the effective delivery of family planning services. These can include provider biases, lack of trained personnel, inadequate infrastructure, and issues related to privacy and confidentiality (Blanc et al., 2002).
