ARBA MINCH UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES SCHOOL OF NURSING

Abstract

Introduction: Postpartum contraceptives aim to prevent unplanned pregnancies and reduce closely spaced births in the first 12 months after delivery. The global burden of unintended pregnancies and maternal mortalities is significantly high because of the underutilization of postpartum contraceptives. Strategies to improve adoption include involving husbands in decision-making, promoting gender equality, and training healthcare providers on contraceptive options. Despite these initiatives, the postpartum period is a key time for couples to consider contraception. However, there are limited studies in Africa and no studies in Ethiopia. Further investigation is needed to identify the determinants of intention to use postpartum contraceptives and improve its utilization. Objective: To assess intention to use modern contraceptives and associated factors among Primiparous postpartum mothers in public Hospitals of Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2024 Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 respondents selected using a systematic random sampling technique from September 19 to November 19, 2024. The data was collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires by Kobo Toolbox and exported to SPSS version 27 for analysis. In a bivariate analysis, those variables with a pvalue of less than 0.25 (p. <0.25) were candidate variables for multivariable logistic regression. The statistical significance of the association was declared at p-value < 0.05. The findings were interpreted and presented through texts, figures, and tables. Results: A total of 396 postpartum women participated in the study with a response rate of 98.2%. The prevalence of intention to use modern contraceptives among primiparous mothers was 176 (44.4%) with a 95% CI; (39.5-49.5). Attending antenatal care clinic (AOR=2, 95% CI: 1.201, 3.377). Knowledge (AOR =1.7; 95%, CI: 1.048, 2.764). Attitude (AOR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.032, 2.530), and level of education (AOR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.066, 3.461). Were factors statistically associated with intention to use modern contraceptives Conclusion: Less than half of the respondents had the intention to use postpartum modern contraceptives. Key factors affecting this intention include those who have attended antenatal care clinics, knowledge, attitude, and level of education. By comprehensive education and supportive healthcare environments, postpartum modern contraceptive uptake may be increased