FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DEPO-PROVERA CONTRACEPTIVE USE AMONG WOMEN AGED 15-49 YEARS IN KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

This study investigated the socio-demographic, cultural, and healthcare determinants influencing Depo-Provera use in Kisumu County, a region with high fertility rates and unmet family planning needs. The study aimed to identify barriers, misconceptions, and side effects associated with Depo-Provera to enhance family planning services and empower women with informed reproductive choices. The scope included women aged 15-49 years visiting Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), ensuring diverse socio-demographic representation. A descriptive research design was employed, with a sample population of 238 women selected through stratified random sampling. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires with a 5-point Likert scale to capture perceptions and experiences, and the validity and reliability of the instruments were ensured through expert review. Data analysis was conducted using Excel for initial data management and SPSS for advanced statistical analysis, with findings presented in tables to summarize key study revealed that sociodemographic factors such as age, education level, marital status, socioeconomic status, and residence significantly influenced the choice of Depo-Provera. Younger women (20-34 years) and those with higher education levels showed higher usage. Key barriers included cultural beliefs, lack of accurate information, and fear of side effects, cost, and mistrust in the healthcare system. Common side effects reported by 81% of women included headaches, mood swings, weight gain, and irregular bleeding, which contributed to dissatisfaction and discontinuation. The study recommended tailoring family planning programs to address specific sociodemographic factors, increasing accessibility for lower socioeconomic and rural women, and integrating family planning education into school curricula. Culturally sensitive educational initiatives, comprehensive counseling, support groups, and peer education programs were recommended to address barriers and misconceptions. Additionally, healthcare providers were advised to offer detailed counseling and establish monitoring systems to manage side effects and improve user satisfaction and reproductive health outcomes.