Exploring knowledge and behavioural intentions for implant contraceptives uptake among rural South African young women

Abstract

Modern contraceptives such as implants have the potential to alleviate unintended pregnancies among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). In South Africa, the use of free implant contraceptives in the public health sector decreased from 175 000 in 2014/2015 to only 50 000 in 2016/2017, with declines noted in all provinces. This study explores whether South African AGYW, if exposed to messages about benefits and risks prior to use, would be willing to use them to manage personal reproductive health. The study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional survey with a post-test only design among secondary schools in Limpopo Province, among 306 school going young women. Findings revealed that majority of participants were unwilling to use implant contraceptives whether exposed to a health campaign  message about benefits and risks of using implant contraceptives. Insights into underlying sentiments could assist health promotion organisations to formulate effective campaigns towards the use of implant contraceptives.