A qualitative study of Influences, Sources of Information and Media Consumption habits on Uptake of Contraceptive Services among people of Reproductive age in Uganda

Abstract Background Uganda has registered an increased investment in family planning (FP) programmes, which has contributed to improvement in knowledge of modern contraceptive methods being nearly universal. However, this has not matched uptake of modern methods and reduction in unmet need of FP. Due to these challenges, a programme on improving awareness, access to and uptake of modern contraceptives is being implemented. We therefore conducted a formative study to determine the influences, key sources and media consumption habits of contraceptive information at the onset of this programme. Methods Using a qualitative study design, we conducted thirty-two focus group discussion and twenty-one in-depth interviews involving men and women of reproductive age. We also carried out twenty-one key informant interviews with people involved in FP service delivery. Data was collected in 4 districts where implementation of the program was to take place. Audio recorders were used to collect data and tools translated in local languages. A codebook was developed, transcripts coded in vivo using a computer software Atlas-ti version 7 before analysis. Ethical clearance was obtained from institutional review boards and informed consent sought from all participants. Results Three themes emerged from the data; influences to contraceptive uptake, sources of contraceptive information and media consumption habits. From the study, most married people with children mentioned health workers as influences while adolescents reported their peers and friends to be their main influence. Religious leaders and mothers in law were reported to mainly discourage people from taking up modern contraceptive methods. Key sources of information were health workers followed by radio. Television, mobile vans mounted with megaphones were other sources of information. Radio was majorly among male whereas television was a source common among female living in urban settings. For media consumption habits, participants advocated for messages in a language free of vulgar words that would interest men. In conclusion, health workers, religious leaders and mothers determine uptake of contraceptive services. The study recommends the consideration of the role of these influences at design of FP program interventions as well as more involvement of health workers in sensitization of communities about contraceptive methods.