Intrauterine Device Use and Perceptions Among Women in Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Massay Catherine Safari, Rivenes Lafontan Sara, Rogathi Jane Januarius, Safari Upendo S., Sigalla Geofrey Nimrod
Primary Institution: Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Mbulu, Tanzania
Hypothesis
What are the perceptions, challenges, and recommendations surrounding the use of intrauterine devices among women of reproductive age in Tanzania?
Conclusion
The study found that the use of intrauterine devices was low in the study area and that there is a need to strengthen community engagement to reduce misconceptions about the use of IUDs.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of IUD use was only 5%.
- Most women were aware of myths about IUDs but wanted to use them after receiving proper information.
- Community engagement is needed to reduce misconceptions about IUDs.
Takeaway
Only a few women in Tanzania use intrauterine devices for birth control because of misunderstandings and fears about them.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study with 347 women and qualitative interviews with 11 women, using SPSS for quantitative data analysis and content analysis for qualitative data.
Potential Biases
Potential biases were minimized through reflexivity and training of interviewers.
Limitations
The study was hospital-based, limiting generalization to other regions or healthcare settings in Tanzania.
Participant Demographics
Participants were women of reproductive age (15-49 years), with a mean age of 28.6 years, mostly married and primarily farmers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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