Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on family planning among Women of Reproductive Age in Mbeya urban, Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: Family planning involves a couple's intentional efforts to limit or space pregnancies through contraceptive methods. Globally, unintended pregnancies result in approximately 3.9 million unsafe abortions each year, often with fatal consequences, and the adoption of family planning methods remains insufficient. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to family planning among reproductive-age women in Mbeya urban Tanzania.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital, focusing on reproductive-age women (18-45 years) attending the family planning clinic. Participants were recruited through simple random sampling, and data were gathered using structured, close-ended questionnaires that included demographic information and knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding family planning. Data analysis was performed using Stata Version 23, employing descriptive statistics and a multivariate logistic regression model to assess associations between variables. A p-value of 0.05 was used as the threshold for statistical significance.
Results: The study had 350 participants, most of whom were women aged 26-35 (50.6%). Of these, 93.1% demonstrated good knowledge of family planning, 2% had a positive attitude, and 80.3% reported good family planning practices. Positive family planning practices were significantly associated with knowledge of FP (p = 0.007), educational level (p = 0.000), and age (p = 0.000).
Conclusion: While awareness of family planning and contraceptive methods is satisfactory, the actual use of contraception remains low. Targeted education and counselling for women and family planning messages aimed at men are needed. Further studies are also necessary to explore the reasons for non-use and how to address them. Additionally, future research should assess the cost-benefit and acceptance of contraceptive methods to improve education efforts.