Modern family planning method utilization and associated factors among women with disabilities in the Wolaita Zone, Ethiopia: a mixed methods study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The utilization of modern family planning methods has improved maternal and child health and reduced population growth. However, modern family planning methods are utilized for only 10 percent of disabled women worldwide. In Ethiopia, the issue of family planning among women with disabilities has not been explicitly addressed or documented. OBJECTIVE: To assess modern family planning method utilization and associated factors among women with disabilities in the Wolaita zone in Ethiopia, 2022. METHOD: A concurrent mixed study was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 332 women with disabilities by using a pretested structured questionnaire. Study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. The data were entered into Epi Data version 4.6 and subsequently exported to SPSS version 26.0 software. A logistic regression model was fitted to identify associated factors. A P value < 0.05 with a 95% confidence level was used to indicate statistical significance. Qualitative data were collected through individual in-depth interviews among 11 purposively selected study participants using interview-guided questions. Inductive thematic analysis was performed using open code software version 4.3. The findings were triangulated with the quantitative results and are presented in the text, table and chart. RESULTS: Overall, 19.3% of women with disabilities utilized the modern family planning method. Being married (AOR=5.75, 95% CI=2.76-11.99), having good knowledge (AOR=5.25, 95% CI=2.36-11.68), and having a positive attitude (AOR=3.37, 95% CI=1.55-7.33) were significantly associated with hospital utilization. Information and communication problems, unfriendly health facility infrastructure, an unsupported services provision approach, undermining disable women, myths and misconceptions, and transportation-related issues were identified as barriers that hinder utilization. CONCLUSION: Theutilization of modern family planning methods among women with disabilities is low. Marital status, knowledge, and attitudes toward modern family planning were associated factors. It is crucial to address equity in the delivery of health care services, so a societal, attitudinal, and physical barrier must be addressed to increase the utilization of this method.