Spousal Communication and Family Planning Utilization in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The need to explore the nexus between spousal communication and family planning utilization especially in the developing world cannot be overemphasized. Studies show limited male involvement in family planning programs in the developing worlds including Nigeria. Which negatively affects spousal communication about family planning activities leading to low family planning utilization. Few researches have been carried out on spousal communication and family planning utilization among couples in the study area. This is the gap in knowledge which this study filled. The study investigated Spousal communication and family planning utilization among couples in Anambra state using cross-sectional survey design. The Health Belief Model provided the framework for the study. The target population for this paper is 2,049,924 married men and women in the study area, Using Taro Yamane formula to derive the sample size of 400 respondents for this study, also hypothesis was tested using the Chi-Square ( x2) statistics. Structured questionnaires and In-depth interviews comprised the instruments for the data collection. Findings show that, family planning is not optimal in the study area, as only a few respondents are using both medical and non-medical methods of family planning, especially the Billings ovulation method probably due to religious beliefs. On the other hand, spousal communication about family planning issues was found to be in limited practice. Family planning utilization was found to be higher among couples that engage in family planning communication. There should be intensive sensitization programs on family planning programs and strengthening spousal communication in the study area. Also, male involvement in family planning should be encouraged.