Motivators and Influencers of Adolescent Girls’ Decision Making regarding Contraceptive Use in Four Districts of Zambia

Mumbi Chola, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ)
Khumbilani Hlongwana, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
Themba Ginindza, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal

Low contraceptive use negates the potential benefits of contraception in preventing unwanted and early pregnancies. This study aimed to explore and understand the motivators and influencers of adolescent girls’ contraceptive decision making. We analysed qualitative data from seven focus group discussions and three key informant interviews with adolescent girls aged 15 to 19 years in four Zambian districts. Fear of pregnancy, diseases, having more children, and spacing of children were key motivators for adolescents’ contraceptive use. Friends and peers were motivators of contraceptive use while fears of side effects and infertility drove non-use. Peer pressure and fear of mocking by friends were important deterrents to contraceptive use. Parents, peers and friends, family members, partners, churches, and religious groups influenced adolescent girls’ contraceptive decisions. Mixed messages from these influencers complicate adolescents’ contraceptive decisions. Interventions targeting increased contraceptive use should be all-inclusive, empower adolescents, and give them autonomy to make contraceptive decisions.