Abstract

Background: Benefits of contraception are well elucidated, but when women switch or discontinue use, it impacts overall determinants of fertility and reproductive health. The study aimed to determine patterns and reasons for contraceptive method switching or discontinuation.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the family planning clinic of the hospital between January 2019 to December 2021. A semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics, contraception, and reasons for switching and discontinuation. Data analysis was performed using simple descriptive statistics with frequency tables and percentages.

Results: There were 318 respondents, with 147 (46.2%) switching methods and 171 (53.8%) discontinuing. Implants were the most common form of contraception used by respondents (241, 75.7%). Among those switching contraception, the majority were using contraceptive implants (104, 70.7%) and switched to another class of contraceptives, either injectables or pills. Among participants discontinuing, the majority also used contraceptive implants (137, 80.1%). The most common reasons given by participants switching methods were abnormal uterine bleeding, headaches, and weight gain, while participants discontinuing cited the desire to have another child or abnormal uterine bleeding.

Conclusion: Women discontinued their contraceptive method when they were ready to have another child and switched their contraceptive method due to side effects. Women sometimes switched from more effective long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods to less effective methods. Contraceptive counselling needs to be improved, along with training on proper contraceptive implant insertion and removal and the management of side effects associated with contraception, to improve contraceptive uptake and fully reap its benefits.

Key words: Contraception, Switching, Discontinuation, Nigeria