Abstract

Unintended pregnancies pose significant global public health concerns, impacting
individuals, families, and society at large. Despite their efficacy, the utilization of longacting
contraceptive methods (LACMs) has lagged behind short-acting methods like oral
contraceptives and injections, and the reasons for this disparity remain unclear. This study
aimed to assess the level of LACM utilization among women attending the MCH clinic at
Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital (FRRH) and to identify potential influencing factors.
Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data was collected from 52 respondents through
a pretested questionnaire. Analysis conducted using IBM SPSS 25.0 revealed a mean
respondent age of 27.6±4.8 (SD) years, with a LACM prevalence of 26.9%. Factors associated
with LACM use included maternal age ≥30 years and having four or more children
(X2=11.47; p=0.001) and (X2=37.66; P=<0.001) respectively. The prevalence of LACM use
among women at FRRH's MCH clinic was notably lower (26.9%) compared to short-acting
contraceptive methods (73.1%). Notably, this study highlighted maternal age ≥30 years and
parity ≥4 as significant factors linked with LACM utilization. Recommendations stemming
from this study advocate for strategies devised by healthcare providers and stakeholders
aimed at increasing LACM utilization, particularly among women under thirty years old and
those with a parity of three or less. Additionally, further research is suggested to delve
deeper into the reasons behind this low prevalence, fostering a more comprehensive
understanding of the underlying factors influencing contraceptive choices among this
demographic.
Keywords: risk factors, contraceptive, women