Knowledge and use of modern family planning methods by rural women in Zambia

The main aim of the study was to determine knowledge and use of modern contractive methods among reproductive age group rural women in Zambia. The study is a descriptive cross-sectional study of 105 randomly selected rural women. Data was collected using semi-structured interview schedule and analyzed using EPI Info version 6 statistical packages. The findings revealed that 63% of the respondents were within the age group 21-35 years, 65% were married and 64% were peasant farmers. 90% of the respondents had heard about modern contraceptives and their main source of information was the Health worker (62%). 76% of the respondents stated that modern contraceptive methods could be obtained from public health facilities. 56% of the respondents were currently using modern contraceptive methods and 46% were not using modern contraceptive methods. Reasons for non use of contraceptive methods were religious beliefs (50%), partner disapproval (30%) and side effects (20%). The results showed a relationship between educational level and use of contraceptives (Chi-square 7.83, df = 3, P < 0.05) and spouse approval or support of contractive methods and use of contraceptive (Chi-square 5.9, df = 2, P < 0.05). Therefore, efforts to promote modern contraceptive use among the rural women should be intensified to overcome barriers to contraceptive use and should involve men.