Abstract

The study examined the socio-economic determinants of contraceptive use among rural women in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. The study was conducted in the four clans in the area. Ikwuano was purposively selected because of its classification as rural and high dependence on agriculture. Data for the study were collected through a service questionnaire. A total of 200 women were randomly selected from each of the four clans. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Maximum Likelihood Probit regression analysis. The analysis strongly suggests that mass media messages have a powerful effect on modern contraceptive use. Exposure to mass media messages will result to greater likelihood of use of modern contraception. Education is positive in explaining women’s current use of contraceptives. Educated women are more likely to appreciate the advantages of having fewer, better educated children. The Probit result further show that the extended family system is opposed to measures that lower fertility. The family size variable shows disposition to the non-use of contraceptives. Information about contraceptives use was mainly obtained from primary health centres. The study recommends that primary health centres should be well-equipped to render family planning services.

Key words: Socio-economic, contraceptives, population, fertility, Probit, women.