Contraceptive use among HIV‐positive women in Enugu, southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract Objective To determine the prevalence and pattern of, and factors associated with, contraceptive usage among HIV‐positive women in Enugu, southeastern Nigeria. Methods In a questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study, 400 consecutive HIV‐positive, sexually active women receiving care at the adult HIV clinics of 2 tertiary health institutions in Enugu were interviewed using pre‐tested questionnaires between March and August 2012. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was carried out via Epi Info. Results The rate of contraceptive use was 73.1%; 26.9% (n = 91) of women were not using modern contraceptives. Male condoms were the most frequent contraception used (78.1%, n = 193), but 48.2% of women reported inconsistent use. The proportion of women using a dual‐contraceptive method was 25.1%; none used the female condom. Having a regular sexual partner was significantly associated with use of modern contraception (odds ratio, 73.00; 95% confidence interval, 34.13–156.13; P < 0.001). Misconception and fear of adverse effects were the most common reasons for not using contraception. Conclusion A considerable proportion of HIV‐positive women in Enugu who did not desire to achieve pregnancy in the following 2 years (26.9%) had an unmet need for contraception. The use of contraception prevents unintended pregnancy and subsequent mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV and should be promoted in the region.