Subdermal Contraceptive Implants: Profile of Acceptors in a Tertiary Hospital in Southern Nigeria

Authors

  • Aniekan M. Abasiattai University of Uyo
  • Ntiense M. Utuk University of Uyo
  • Emmanuel C. Inyang-Etoh University of Uyo

Keywords:

Contraceptive implants, Acceptors, Uyo.

Abstract

Background: Subdermal contraceptive implants provide safe, effective, convenient, long term reversible fertility regulation, and because of their numerous non-contraceptive benefits are particularly suitable for women in developing countries. This study determines the socio-demographic characteristics of acceptors of subdermal implants, the timing of their use and their complications at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo.

Materials and Methods: The record cards of all clients that accepted subdermal contraceptive implants over a four year period were reviewed.

Results: There were a total of 1057 new contraceptive acceptors out of which 197 (18.6%) accepted contraceptive implants. The modal age group of the clients was 30-34 years (38.0%). One hundred and fifty six patients (79.2%) were mulitparous, 97.5% of the patients had attained secondary level of education while 92.4% were Christians. About 56.9% of the clients preferred to use implants to space child births, most of the implants were inserted during the first week of the menstrual period, and majority (78.2%) of the clients obtained their information concerning implants from clinic personnel. The most common complication was abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Conclusion: contraceptive implants are very effective contraceptive methods that are mostly accepted and used by young, educated parous women who mostly preferred to space births. There is also a high continuation rate among acceptors so increasing availability of implants in family planning units nationwide could increase the number of women who utilize this method of contraception.

Author Biographies

Aniekan M. Abasiattai, University of Uyo

Gynaecology

Ntiense M. Utuk, University of Uyo

Gynaecology

Emmanuel C. Inyang-Etoh, University of Uyo

Gynaecology

Downloads

Published

2014-08-29

Issue

Section

Articles