Demographic and socio-cultural factors influencing contraceptive uptake among women of reproductive age in Tamale Metropolis, Northern Region, Ghana

BACKGROUND: This study assessed some demographic and socio-cultural factors that influence contraceptive uptake among reproductive-aged women in Tamale Metropolis of the Northern Region, Ghana DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from February to March 2015 SETTING: All three sub Metropolis in Tamale PARTICIPANTS: All community members and women of reproductive age (15–49 years) INTERVENTION: The study used cluster sampling to recruit women who were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Nine focus group discussions (FGDs) were also held among community members who were purposively selected. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: contraceptive uptake (use of contraceptive) RESULTS: The mean age of the women was 26 years. The prevalence of contraceptive uptake among reproductive-age women was 36.8% (165/448). Women with secondary school education [AOR=4.4(95%CI:1.6–12.4)], and those in homes where decisions on having children were made by both partners [AOR=2.1(95%CI:1.1–04.42)] were more likely to use contraceptives. Unemployed women [AOR=0.3(95%CI:0.1–0.8)], women whose husbands were unaware of their contraceptive use [AOR=0.4(95%CI:0.2–0.9)] and those having a culture or religion that frowns on contraceptive use [AOR=0.4(95%CI:0.2–0.8)] were less likely to use contraceptive among women in the Tamale Metropolis. CONCLUSION: The study found a contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) in Tamale Metropolis, Northern Ghana to be 36.8%. Education and living in a home where childbearing decisions are made together were identified as positive factors influencing contraceptive uptake. FUNDING: This work was funded by the authors