AN ASSESSMENT OF POSTNATAL CARE ON FAMILY PLANNING ADOPTION IN THE KUMBUNGU DISTRICT OF THE NORTHERN REGION

Abstract

Reproductive Health and Family Planning (FP) services have been of global concern especially in developing countries where fertility rates are high. Postpartum Family planning is recognized as a key life-saving intervention for mothers and their children. The study aimed at assessing postnatal care in promoting family planning among women in the Kumbungu district. In conducting the study a cross - sectional survey that employed both qualitative and quantitative methods was used to collect data among women of reproductive age and health staff in the six selected health facilities of the district. Both open and closed ended questionnaires were used to collect responses from the respondents. In all, 200 women seeking postnatal care were sampled in the six health facilities for the study. The results of the study revealed higher odds of postpartum family planning uptake among respondents with at most primary level education(OR=2.77, 95% CI; 0.35-21.75, p>0.05), informal sector occupations(OR=2.28, 95% CI; 0.63-8.22, p>0.05) and among those earning less than GHc100 income. This shows that respondents with higher education, gainful employment and high incomes resort to modern family planning. Majority of those without formal education were noted not to be practicing modern contraception. It was also revealed that modern contraceptive use was more likely among respondents who were educated and among those who made 1-2 visits to the post-partum postnatal center relative to those who visited more. The study also revealed that some of the respondents had adequate knowledge on the use of Lactational Amenorrhea as an alternative during post-partum periods. Some of the respondents reported that Lactational Amenorrhea is the best method of Postpartum Family planning. The study concludes that family planning and postnatal issues are not well promise in the district. The study therefore recommended that more education should be given to spouses on family planning decision making and also they should intensify the education on the importance of postnatal care.