Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Use among Married Women in Reproductive Age Group in Sheder Refugee Camp, Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Countries in conflict and post-conflict including the case of refugee camps have the highest levels of maternal and child mortality in the world. While the use of modern contraception around the world has grown, prevalence of modern contraceptive use is still low in refugee camp settings. Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence and determinants of modern family planning use among married women residing in Sheder refugee camp Somali Region. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 25 to April 5, 2011. Simple random sampling technique was employed to select 329 married women in reproductive age group. Data was collected using structured and pre-tested questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16.0 software.Frequency tables, graphs and descriptive summaries were used to describe the study variables. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression an analysis (P-value < 0.05 with 95% CI level) was used as a cut of was used to see an association and factor influencing the outcome variable. point to see significance of association. Results: Most respondents, 284 (91.9%) were aware of at least one modern contraceptive method. However, only 55(17.8%) women were using modern contraceptive. Variables such as women’s formal education [AOR = 6.76 95% CI:(2.11, 21.59)], those who had discussions with their partner [AOR=22.93(95% CI: 3.63, 44.82)], women having number of live children 3 to 4 [AOR=10.93 95% CI: 5.48( 2.38, 50.15)], women who worked outside their home [AOR= 95% CI:(1.68, 17.89)], women whose husbands approve modern family planning use [AOR=10.7 95% CI:( 1.82, 63)] and women who involved in decision making on modern contraceptive use[ AOR =11 95% CI:(1.57, 36.96)] were significantly associated with modern contraceptive use. Conclusions and recommendations: The finding showed that the practice of modern contraceptive use is low. Some of the socio demographic characteristics mentioned above were depicted as a factors determining use of modern contraceptive use among refugee women. Therefore, there is a need to promote and strengthen IEC/BCC programs in spheres of modern family planning programs and women empowerment shall be more encouraged through autonomy, education and employment to increase the proportion of family planning users.