Trends in contraceptive use among female adolescents in Nigeria: Evidence from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

Available evidence indicates that only 2.1 percent and 1.2 percent of married (or in union) adolescents in Nigeria are using any method and modern method of contraceptives respectively. This has contributed to the estimated 1.2 million induced abortions done annually of which 60 percent were unsafe. The study examined data from the 2013 and 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey for trend on the knowledge and use of contraceptives by all women, currently married and sexually active unmarried women aged 15-19 years in between surveys. There was an increase of 144% (p<0.05) in Family Planning (FP) discussion during health facility visit, 50% increase in FP utilization rate (p<0.05), 97% increase in FP demand satisfied by modern methods (p<0.05) and 7% reduction in total unmet need (p>0.05) among currently married women 15-19 years. It also showed a 50% (p<0.05) and 86% (p<0.05) reduction in the current use of contraceptives and unmet need among sexually active unmarried women 15-19 years, respectively. None of the adolescents adopted Long-acting methods (LAM), Intrauterine device (IUD), and female sterilization contraceptive methods. We recommend an inclusive and youth-friendly, client-centered contraceptive services and information for adolescents notwithstanding their marital status. (Afr J Reprod Health 2021; 25[5]: 61-68).