Perspectives on Barriers to Family Planning Uptake among Postpartum Women, Men and Healthcare Providers in Rural Nigeria: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Love Ayamolowo, Obafemi Awolowo University
Sunday Abatan, Federal University Oye
Abiola A. Afolabi, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Sindiwe James, Nelson Mandela University
Nadine Rall, Nelson Mandela University

Introduction: Unintended pregnancies contribute to high maternal mortality rates and hinder socio-economic development. Despite efforts, family planning utilization remains low, especially postpartum. Men's role in family planning remains underexplored. This study examines postpartum family planning perspectives in rural Nigeria to identify barriers and inform interventions. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was utilized in three states in southwest Nigeria, employing multi-stage sampling. Quantitative surveys assessed family planning awareness, attitudes, and practices among men and women (N=388), while qualitative interviews explored midwives' perspectives. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS and qualitative thematic analysis. Results: Significant associations existed between socio-demographic factors and family planning uptake. Three themes from provider interviews were identified: User-related, Provider-related, and Health system challenges in family planning service barriers. Conclusion: This study provides insights into factors influencing postpartum family planning uptake in rural Nigeria, informing interventions to improve utilization and reduce unintended pregnancies and maternal mortality.