Uptake of long-acting reversible contraceptive devices in Western region of The Gambia.

Matthew Anyanwu1, Bom Wekye Ndam Alida.

1. Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul The Gambia
2. School of Medical and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia

Abstract
Background: The contraceptive method has become an essential factor in the life of most women of reproductive age group; although it varies in different stages of their life course. The use of long acting reversible methods (LARC) is proposed as a strategy to reverse undesirable maternal health consequences in developing countries.

Objective: To determine the uptake of long-acting reversible contraceptive in The Gambia.

Methods:A community based cross-sectional study of women attending family planning clinic were studied using interviewer- administered questionnaire which included information on socio-demographic factors, reproductive health and contraceptive use of the participants.

Results: About 89 % of study participants used long acting reversible contraceptive methods. Of the three commonly available long acting reversible contraceptive methods, Depo Provera was the most commonly used method; 78 of 141 (55.32%); followed by implants (43.3%) and intrauterine contraceptive (1.42%). Being housewives, with 3-4 living children and having secondary level education were associated with high uptake of LARC.

Conclusion: The uptake of long acting reversible contraceptive was high; with Depo Provera as the most commonly used contraceptive method in The Gambia. There seemed to be an increase in the uptake of implants; with intrauterine contraceptive device being the least commonly used method.

Keywords:Uptake, LARC, methods.