Contraceptives use among reproductive-age women in New Juaben Municipality, Ghana

Abstract Background Reproductive-age women in New Juaben Municipality of the Eastern Region of Ghana have been found to have a high rate of unplanned pregnancies despite the availability of modern contraceptives. However, no study has been done in the Municipality regarding the perception, threats, barriers, or challenges these women face in utilizing modern contraceptive services. Therefore, this study sought to identify and help address critical issues faced by reproductive-age women in the use of modern contraceptives. Methods The study adopted a basic qualitative approach and collected data through individual interviews. The participants were purposefully selected and informed consent was obtained. After the transcription of interviews, the data were analyzed inductively using thematic content analysis techniques. Results The participants acknowledged the negative consequences of unintended pregnancy, and they expressed the desire to use modern contraceptives to either prevent unintended pregnancy or space their births. The study also established that the low utilization of modern contraceptive services is influenced by low knowledge, misconceptions, religious beliefs, and perceptions about the side effects of using modern contraceptives. Conclusions It is necessary for all health professionals to create more awareness and intensify education on modern contraceptive methods while taking the health belief context into consideration.