Long-acting Reversible Contraception: Postpartum Uptake in the Buea and Limbe Regional Hospitals, Cameroon

Abstract

Background: A significant gap exists between the intention and actual use of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) postpartum despite their effectiveness. LARC use remains low in low- and middle-income countries, including Buea and Limbe, Cameroon. Aim: This study examines the prevalence, barriers, and factors influencing LARC use among postpartum women in this region, aiming to inform health interventions. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 205 postpartum women at Buea and Limbe regional hospitals between February 1, 2024, and April 30, 2024. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive history, family planning knowledge, and LARC use. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with LARC use. Results: Of the 205 women, 34% were using LARC (81.4% implants and 18.6% IUDs). Fear of side effects (41.5%) and concerns about duration of effectiveness (13.2%) were the primary barriers to LARC use. Positive perceptions about LARC, including its lack of interference with sexual intercourse (53.7%) and cancer risk (50.2%), were common. Protestant women (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =2.27, P = 0.015) and employed women (AOR = 4.19, P = 0.009) were more likely to use LARC. Women who did not receive counseling were less likely to adopt LARC (AOR = 0.04, P = 0.001). Conclusion: Utilization rate of LARC during postpartum remains low (34%) among women attending the regional hospitals of Southwest. Comprehensive counseling during antenatal care and the immediate postpartum period is crucial for increasing LARC uptake among these women. Addressing concerns about side effects and the duration of effectiveness is essential for promoting LARC adoption.