Barriers to Intrauterine Device Uptake in a Rural Setting in Ghana

Health Care Women Int. 2016;37(2):197-215. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2014.946511. Epub 2014 Oct 14.

Abstract

Long-acting reversible contraception is an underutilized method in low-resource areas. Our study aims to: (a) assess knowledge and attitudes around contraception; (b) identify barriers to intrauterine device (IUD) uptake; and (c) develop interventions to address this gap in contraceptive care. We conducted focus group discussions with pregnant, postpartum, and reproductive-aged women, males, and health care workers in rural Ghana. Lack of IUD-specific knowledge, provider discomfort with insertion, and incomplete contraceptive counseling contribute to lack of IUD use. Participant- and provider-related barriers contribute to poor uptake of IUDs within the community. Targeted interventions are necessary to improve IUD use.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Community-Based Participatory Research
  • Contraception / methods
  • Family Planning Services*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Ghana
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Intrauterine Devices*
  • Male
  • Postpartum Period
  • Pregnancy
  • Professional-Patient Relations*
  • Qualitative Research
  • Rural Population
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult