A Literature Review on Contraceptive Practices, Barriers and Measures to Improve Use Among Postpartum Women

Abstract:

Introduction: Globally, the challenges of maternal mortality and morbidity from untimely pregnancy and unspaced births are enormous. An increase in contraceptive use can promote women's health, thereby decreasing adverse maternal and child outcomes in Africa. This literature search reviewed the barriers encountered by mothers to contraceptives and measures that improve increased use among postpartum mothers. Design: The review comprises quantitative studies conducted among women and postpartum mothers in Africa. The search was conducted in PubMed, ProQuest and Google Scholar using contraceptives, practice/use/utilisation, barriers/limitations, measures, family planning practice, postpartum mothers, women, expectations, and contraception perception barriers or factors. The health belief model gave insight into the perception of women to contraceptive use. The search produced 18 African studies published in English between 2015-2019 among reproductive-aged women 15-49. Contraceptive use ranged from 11% to 86.8%. The perception of women regarding their fertility desires creates an imbalance in contraceptive use. Factors that affected use include knowledge, age, the commencement of sexual activity and resumption of menstruation after delivery, and the culture and religion of the women. The women contend with barriers such as fear of side-effects, knowledge barriers and misconceptions, lack of spousal support, decision-making power, and health system-related barriers. Conclusion: Creating method-specific education to meet the women's personal information and education needs is one of the strategies identified and improved health system measures to increase use in the immediate postpartum period. Therefore, ensuring access, affordability, availability, and access will bring the desired behavioural change.