Exploring Use, Non-Use and Discontinuation of Modern Contraception among Urban Youth in Accra, Ghana

Adriana A. Biney, University Of Ghana
Donatus Yaw Atiglo, University Of Ghana
Laud Sowah, University of Ghana,legon
Delali Badasu, Regional Institute for Population Studies
Kwadwo Ohene Sarfoh, Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development Project (GARID)
Augustine Ankomah, School of Public Health, University of Ghana

Sexually active youth in sub-Saharan Africa are likely to refrain from using contraception, use it inconsistently or discontinue use of effective methods, despite their desire to prevent childbearing. This study qualitatively explores reasons for the contraception behavior of sexually active emerging adults – youth aged 18 to 25 years who are no longer in adolescence but have not yet entered adulthood – using Free, Ogden and Lee’s model on contraceptive use as dynamic and contextual. Relationship/contraception life-history interviews were conducted with 30 male and female tertiary students, informal workers and apprentices in Accra, Ghana. Findings indicate that life aspirations and maintaining a positive sexual identity were reasons most females reported using contraception. Also, unlike female tertiary students, apprentices and informal workers used contraception to avoid pregnancy, especially due to prior experience with childbearing. Perception of vulnerability to pregnancy informed female participants’ use compared to males. Negative experiences with contraception and the desire to have sexual pleasure were reasons for non-use. Finally, some female apprentices lacked the ability to negotiate contraception use with their partners whereas female tertiary students were more assertive. Study recommendations should generate discussion and feed into tailored policies targeting the groups of youth and their specific challenges.

Keywords: Family Planning and Contraception, Children, Adolescents, and Youth, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Qualitative data/methods/approaches

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