Prevalence and factors associated with utilization of family planning methods among youth in northwestern Tanzania

IntroductionYouth are challenged globally by sexual and reproductive health problems such as unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abortion and sexually transmitted infections. While family planning methods are a safe and effective way for individuals to responsibly control their sexual and reproductive needs, their use amongst sexually active youth is very low. Of urgency, is to understand factors influencing youth to adopt family planning methods so as to inform future strategies aiming at increasing the use of modern methods of contraception. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and factor associated with utilization of family planning methods among youth in northwestern Tanzania. Materials and MethodsA cross sectional analytical study was conducted among youth aged 15-24 years in selected secondary schools and university Colleges in Nyamagana district, Mwanza Tanzania. Participating institutions and the participants were selected using a multistage sampling method. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and later analyzed using SPSS version 25. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with the use of family planning; with significance considered at p-value<0.05. ResultsA total of 349 participants were enrolled. The prevalence of utilization of family planning methods among sexually active youth was 83.2%. Factors associated with FP use were being female (AOR 2.84; CI: 1.05, 7.67) and not having a peer who is using the method (AOR 0.31; 95% CI: 0.12, 0.82). Poor awareness on availability of FP services at nearby facility was found to be significant (cOR 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16-0.90) during crude analysis but become insignificant when adjusted for other factors ConclusionMajority of sexually active youth were utilizing FP methods. Sex and peer pressure were significantly associated with family planning use. Therefore, initiatives for advocating comprehensive sexuality education and strengthening youth friendly health clinics are highly proposed to increase consistent contraceptive use among youth.