Factors That Contribute to Contraceptive Stockout Rates in Nigerian Health Facilities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Reproductive Health
• Supply Chain Management

Background:

• Contraceptive stockouts present a significant challenge to family planning (FP) services in Nigeria.
• These stockouts limit access to modern contraceptive methods, leading to negative reproductive health outcomes.
• Despite supply chain strengthening initiatives, persistent stockouts remain a concern in many health facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of contraceptive stockouts in Nigerian service delivery points (SDPs).
• To identify facility characteristics and logistics practices associated with contraceptive stockouts.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for reducing stockouts and improving FP service delivery.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2024, surveying 1,050 SDPs across Nigeria.
• Descriptive statistics and univariate mixed-effects logistic regression were employed.
• Analysis explored associations between stockouts and factors like location, supervision, resupply methods, and logistics.

Main Results:

• 41.7% of SDPs reported at least one contraceptive stockout in the preceding three months.
• Monthly supervisory visits were significantly linked to lower stockout rates (p=0.014).
• Delays exceeding two weeks in order fulfillment were the strongest predictor of stockouts (OR: 1.76, p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• Contraceptive stockouts are prevalent in Nigeria, affecting nearly half of service delivery points.
• Key factors influencing stockouts include resupply models and delivery delays.
• Enhancing supply chain efficiency, increasing supervision frequency, and optimizing resupply strategies are vital for improving contraceptive access.