Uptake of Modern Contraceptive Methods among Burundian Women and Associated Factors: Analysis of Demographic and Health Survey Data, Burundi 2016–2017

BACKGROUND: Globally in 2017, Burundi was the 9(th) country with the highest population growth rate of 3.2% and a fertility rate of 5.5 children per woman. This probably suggested low uptake of Modern Contraceptive methods (MCM) in the country. Our analysis investigated factors associated with low uptake of MCM among women of reproductive age in Burundi. METHODS: Cross sectional data of non-pregnant women aged 15-49 years was extracted from the Burundi Demographic and Health Survey (2016-2017). We analysed the data at univariate, bivariate and multivariate levels to assess factors influencing MCM uptake among these women using Epi-Info 7.2.2.6. RESULTS: Of the 9,945 women, 2,372 (23.8%) were using MCM. Ngozi province had the highest prevalence of MCM users [284/691(37.7%)]. The most used MCM among respondents was injectable contraceptive (48.3%). As respondent's age increases, the odds of using MCM decreases; 20-24 years (aOR=0.9, 95% CI [0.6–1.2]), 30–34 years (aOR=0.8, 95% CI [0.5–1.0]), 35-39 years (aOR=0.7, 95% CI [0.5–0.9]), 40-44 years (aOR=0.5, 95% CI [0.5–0.9]) and 45-49 years (aOR=0.4, 95% CI [0.2–0.5]) compared with those in the age group 15–19 years. Muslims (aOR=1.5, 95% CI [1.2–1.9]) and Jehovah witnesses (aOR=3.1, 95% CI [1.7–6.5]) were more likely to use MCM than Catholics. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of MCM remains low among women of reproductive age in Burundi, with injectables being the most used method. Factors such as respondent's age and religion were significantly associated with MCM use. Enhanced access to family planning information and services targeting women who are 30 years or more and engaging religious leaders for their active participation is recommended.