Determinants of Uptake of Long-acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC) Among Women of Reproductive Age in Nandi County, Kenya

Abstract

Modern methods of family planning include the Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) and are more effective as well as cost effective than short acting methods. In Kenya, LARC methods are readily available as well as supporting national and county policy frameworks. However the adoption of these methods among the women of child bearing ages (15-49 years) in rural counties especially Nandi County is still poor. Examining the determinants of uptake of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) among women of reproductive age in Nandi County Kenya, were the study’s main objectives. The specific objective includes to; determine the pattern of LARC use among women of reproductive age in Nandi County, Kenya. To establish the determinants affecting LARC uptake among women of reproductive age in Nandi County, Kenya. The research used the probity model in estimation given a sample of women derived from Kenya Demographic and Household Health survey of (2014) and significance was tested at 5% level. The results show that LARC use by women of child bearing age in Nandi County was on average six percent. The estimated model indicated that among women of childbearing age in Nandi County, Kenya, there was a significant correlation between age, marital status, education, socioeconomic position, and employment. It was also shown that women of childbearing age in Nandi County, Kenya, were less likely to seek LARC services if they were older (measured by their age squared) and if they wanted more children. Researchers suggest expanding family planning initiatives to reach women of all ages so that they, and their partners, may learn everything they can about LARC services before making a choice. When it comes to increasing LARC service use among reproductive-age women on a county level, empowerment activities are crucial.