Predictors of Contraceptive use Among Female Adolescents in Ghana

Abstract

Adolescent girls in Ghana still face a number of challenges accessing reproductive/sexual health services despite efforts to improve their accessibility. This paper explores the key socio-demographic factors associated with contraceptive use amongst adolescent girls in Ghana using the 2008 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS). Data from the 2008 GDHS was analyzed. Socio-demographic variables were selected to assess their interaction with contraceptive use. Multivariable regression analyses were performed. Odds ratios and confidence intervals were computed. Place of residence and marital status were the most important predictors of contraceptive use among sexually active adolescents. Rural residents were less likely to use contraceptives compared to urban residents (OR 0.32, CI 0.12–0.84, p=0.021) as well as married respondents compared to their unmarried peers (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.11-0.67, p=0.005). The accessibility of reproductive/sexual health services needs to be improved and promoted in rural areas and among married adolescent women. (Afr J Reprod Health 2014; 18[1]: 102-109).

Keywords: Adolescents, Contraception, Determinants, Ghana, GDHS