Evaluation of Predictors of Modern Contraceptive use Among Adolescents Aged 10-14 Years in Sekyere South District.

Abstract

Adolescent contraceptive use remains a public health priority in Ghana. It plays a crucial role in reducing unintended pregnancies and enhancing reproductive health outcomes. Despite increasing awareness of modern contraceptives, usage among young adolescents is still low. This study evaluated the predictors of modern contraceptive use among adolescents aged 10–14 years in Sekyere South District, Ghana. A cross-sectional design was employed. A total of 429 adolescents were selected using a random sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi square tests, and logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the associations between predictors and contraceptive use. Most respondents were female (50.6%), Christian (88.3%), and in school (96.3%). Knowledge of modern contraceptives was high, with condoms (67.8%), pills (57.8%), and injectables (42.9%) as the most recognized methods. However, only 31.9% reported current use. Socio-cultural factors significantly influenced uptake; adolescents who discussed contraception with parents (AOR=2.45, 95% CI: 1.38–4.33) or partners (AOR=1.97, 95% CI: 1.12–3.45) were more likely to use contraceptives. Stigma and myths reduced the likelihood of use. Health system factors, such as proximity to facilities (AOR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.51–4.76), availability of methods (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.29–4.12), and receiving counselling (AOR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.74–5.35), were positively associated with use. This study demonstrates that awareness of modern contraceptives among adolescents is relatively high, but actual utilization remains low. Socio-cultural barriers, misconceptions, and limitations within health service delivery continue to restrict uptake. Interventions should prioritize strengthening parental and community engagement, improving access to adolescent-friendly services, and correcting misconceptions through targeted education. Such strategies are essential to reduce unintended adolescent pregnancies and their associated health and social consequences.