Evaluation of Family Planning Knowledge and Uptake Among Women of Reproductive Age in Ondo State

Family planning uptake remains below optimal levels in many Nigerian communities despite demonstrated benefits for maternal health, infant survival, and household economic wellbeing. This study evaluated knowledge of family planning methods and their uptake among women of reproductive age in Ondo State, South West Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in Akure South and Ifedore Local Government Areas, enrolling 280 women aged 15 to 49 years through multistage sampling. A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge of at least three contraceptive methods, current contraceptive use, reasons for non-use, sources of family planning information, and reproductive intentions. Results showed that 87.5 percent of respondents demonstrated knowledge of at least one modern contraceptive method, but current use of any modern method was reported by only 43.2 percent. The most commonly used methods were injectables (38.4 percent of current users) and oral contraceptive pills (26.2 percent). Non-use reasons included spousal opposition (41.6 percent), fear of side effects (38.4 percent), desire for more children (32.1 percent), and religious concerns (22.3 percent). Significant predictors of current family planning use included secondary or tertiary education (OR 2.8; p < 0.001), spousal support (OR 3.7; p < 0.001), and prior healthcare provider counselling (OR 2.5; p < 0.001). The study recommends community-level couple counselling, male involvement programming, and trained community health extension workers as strategies to close the family planning uptake gap in Ondo State. Keywords: family planning, contraceptive uptake, women of reproductive age, Ondo State, South West Nigeria