Assessment of Contraceptive Drug Counselling Practices at Family Planning Clinics in Niger State

Effective counselling on hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive methods is essential for correct use, adherence, and prevention of unintended pregnancies. This study assessed the quality of contraceptive drug counselling at family planning clinics in three public hospitals in Minna, Niger State, North Central Nigeria. A mixed-methods study combining structured observation of 120 counselling encounters and exit interviews with 150 clinic attendees was conducted. Counselling quality was assessed using a validated checklist covering method explanation, correct use instructions, side effect discussion, warning signs, drug interactions, and follow-up scheduling. Patient satisfaction and comprehension were assessed via exit interviews. Results showed that overall counselling quality was rated as adequate in only 44.2 percent of observed encounters. The frequency of side effect counselling was the most deficient element, provided in only 38.3 percent of encounters. Information on drug interactions with enzyme-inducing medications was provided in only 14.2 percent of cases. Patient comprehension of correct use instructions was satisfactory in 62.0 percent of attendees. Satisfaction with counselling was associated with encounter duration, with encounters lasting more than ten minutes showing significantly higher satisfaction scores (p < 0.01). The study recommends training family planning providers in structured contraceptive counselling frameworks, improving provider-to-patient time allocation, and deploying pharmacists as integrated contraceptive counselling support in family planning clinics. Keywords: contraceptive counselling, family planning, hormonal contraceptives, Niger State, reproductive health