Awareness and Utilisation of Family Planning Methods Among Married Women in Taraba State

This study investigates the awareness and utilisation of family planning methods among married women in Taraba State, North East Nigeria. High fertility rates and limited reproductive health knowledge among women in rural North East Nigeria have been associated with adverse maternal and child health outcomes. Using a descriptive survey design, the study targets 260 married women aged 18 to 45 in Jalingo and Karim-Lamido local government areas. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Objectives include assessing women's awareness of available family planning methods, determining the level of utilisation, and identifying socio-cultural barriers to adoption. Recent literature from North East Nigeria documents that religious norms, spousal disapproval, and limited health facility access significantly constrain women's uptake of family planning services. Data were analysed using frequency tables, percentages, and chi-square. The Health Belief Model serves as the theoretical framework, explaining health behaviour adoption based on perceived risk and benefits. Findings are anticipated to reveal high awareness but low utilisation rates, with spousal consent and religious beliefs as dominant barriers. Recommendations target the Taraba State Ministry of Health, Home Economics educators, and community health extension workers to integrate family planning into community education programmes. Keywords: family planning, married women, reproductive health, Taraba State, socio-cultural barriers.