Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the level of contraceptive uptake and factors associated
with the use of contraceptives among women of reproductive age in the western division of
Bugiri Municipality, Eastern Uganda. This study was a cross-sectional descriptive study which
employed both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods and involved 409 women
of reproductive age was used. The level of contraceptive uptake was low (45%), as well as
utilization of contraceptives and it was associated with a couple of factors including; women’s
age(years) at first coitus 15-17(183), contraception use at first coitus (24%), religion; Anglicans
(53%), religious acceptance (46%), gender, marital status: singles being the majority (166),
education level; primary (40%), knowledge and awareness (100%): health workers being the
prime (36%) source of information. Contraceptive accessibility and availability (59%), shortage
of contraceptives (65%), preference contraceptive method: condoms (51%), affordability (174),
easy usability (66) and safety (80) of the preferred contraceptive method. Other factors;
decision making: both male and female (58%), peer influence (85%) and side effects (25%).
Better informed women on sexual rights and reproductive health are empowered to use
contraceptives more than others. Stakeholders should design, launch and implement inclusive
women-friendly services, sexual and reproductive health programs prioritizing the use of
contraceptives, women empowerment in regard to sexual rights and reproductive health,
behavioural change communications and create an enabling environment for contraceptive
use.