FERTILITY AWARENESS-BASED METHOD USE IN GHANA

A national survey conducted in Ghana examined the use of fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) to avoid pregnancy. The survey aimed to gain knowledge on women who use these methods, their characteristics, and how they use these methods. Among women who reported using a contraceptive method, 9.2% used the rhythm method, 4.3% used the Standard Days Method, and 3.4% used withdrawal as their most effective contraceptive method. Notably, over half (57.3%) of women using the rhythm or Standard Days Method relied primarily on these FABMs without any additional methods. The authors estimate that at least 18% of women using contraception rely primarily on FABMs to avoid pregnancy. The survey found that age, education level, and wealth were associated with a higher likelihood of using rhythm or Standard Days Method. These findings suggest that the use of FABMs may be a preferred method for women with higher socioeconomic status, rather than a lack of access to other contraceptive methods. Women who used FABMs may be more likely to experience unintended pregnancy compared to women who use modern contraceptive methods. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that they have information on how to optimally use the method to increase its effectiveness and meet their desired fertility and reproductive health needs. More than 90% of rhythm method users wanted to learn more about making the method more effective in preventing pregnancy, but only half knew where to go for advice on using the method effectively. Only 17% of users had ever discussed using the rhythm method with a healthcare provider. Understanding the factors that affect contraceptive decision-making can help family planning programs and policymakers ensure that women have access to contraceptive methods and can exercise agency to choose their preferred method. Further research is needed to understand the individuals who choose FABMs and the full scope of unmet contraceptive need.