Factors Influencing the Uptake of Family Planning Services among Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at Major Health Facilities in Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Family planning is a key component of reproductive health, yet uptake remains suboptimal in Northern Nigeria despite high awareness among women of reproductive age. Women attending antenatal clinics therefore, represent an important target group for family planning interventions because antenatal visits provide an opportunity for counselling and the provision of contraceptives. Aim: This study aimed to assess the factors affecting the uptake of family planning services among women attending antenatal clinics at major health facilities in Zaria Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Methods: This was a multicentre cross-sectional analytical study conducted among 388 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Zaria Local Government Area, Kaduna State, between 1 February and 30 June 2025. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from standard reproductive health survey tools, and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Awareness of family planning was high, with 381 (98.2%) respondents reporting awareness, but only 196 (50.5%) had ever used any family planning method. The main source of information was healthcare providers (71.0%). Awareness was highest for pills, injectables, and implants, while implants were the most commonly used method. Most respondents believed family planning improves maternal and child health (81.4%), and 62.9% were willing to use a method after delivery. Fear of side effects was the main barrier (58.8%), followed by spousal influence (20.9%). Age, education, and marital status were significantly associated with uptake (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Awareness of family planning was high, but uptake was lower. The use was influenced by fear of side effects, religion, partner-related factors, and socio-demographic characteristics. Strengthening counselling on method choice and side effects, promoting male involvement, and engaging community and religious leaders may improve uptake.