Abstract

There is a large unmet need for contraception in Ghana, despite many forms of family planning being highly available and a near universal knowledge of contraception among Ghanaian women. This study sought to qualitatively investigate reasons for low-use of contraception in Ghana. Interviews were conducted with 18 women being treated for complications resulting from unsafe abortions to ascertain their views on contraception usage. Thirty healthcare providers, in three hospitals in Kumasi, Ghana were also interviewed. Ten focus groups were held with community members to investigate how contraception is viewed in the larger community. None of the women interviewed were using contraception when they became pregnant. There were three themes for reasons for non-use: Fear of Side Effects, Poor Reception by Health Staff, and Religion. To increase the acceptability of modern contraception, interventions aimed at refuting commonly held misconceptions are sorely needed. Improving the quality of services that women receive when they access services, and ensuring that health workers are well supported to provide the highest quality care possible is highly important.

Key words: Contraception, Ghana.