Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Barriers Influencing Hormonal Contraceptive Utilization among Women Afflicted with Retroviral Disease Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy at a Referral Hospital in Kenya

https://doi.org/10.58460/jccma.v2i1.63

Authors

Keywords:

knowledge, attitudes, hormonal contraceptive utilization

Abstract

Contraception among women living with HIV is crucial not only to avoid unplanned pregnancies but also to minimize transmission of the virus to either partner or unborn child. Uptake of contraception by such cohort of women is however governed by multiple factors. This study thus aimed to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and barriers influencing hormonal contraceptive utilization among women living with HIV/AIDS who are on antiretroviral therapy. The study was a cross-sectional retrospective study carried out at the Comprehensive Care Centre (CCC) at NCRTH from March 2023 to April 2023. Taro Yamane formula was used to determine the sample size. Simple random sampling was our method of sample determination. The use of structured questionnaires with close-ended questions was our method of data collection. Data analysis was conducted using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software version 26. Descriptive data was presented using frequency tables, bar graphs, and percentages. The descriptive statistics included mode, median, and mean while the inferential statistics were done using chi-square analysis. P<0.05 was considered significant. Healthcare providers were the main source (67.2%) of hormonal contraceptive knowledge followed by social media (14%) emerged as an influential platform, while traditional media had a limited impact. Peer and partner influence played roles, with 61.06% making independent contraceptive decisions. Partners (30.09%) and healthcare providers (21.68%) also influenced decisions. The majority (82%) used contraceptives to avoid unwanted pregnancies, while 74.77% valued their benefits over side effects. Bleeding was the most common hormonal contraceptive side effect across the different methods, particularly in injectables (45.23%). Injectable, implant and IUD users reported amenorrhea. Weight-related effects varied by method. Mood swings were prevalent, especially in implant users (14.86%). Chi-squared analysis indicated associations between methods and specific side effects; with injectables and mini pills having the highest and lowest frequency of associated side effects respectively. Participants' religious values (75%), affordability (70%), and lack of belief in contraceptive-related infertility (69%) were influential in contraceptive use decisions. No religion was found to outright deny contraceptive use. The factors influencing knowledge acquisition and decision-making on hormonal contraceptives among women underscore the need for effective communication strategies, diversified information dissemination, and individualized healthcare guidance to empower women in making informed reproductive health choices

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Published

2025-01-12

How to Cite

MOMANYI, L., AKINYI, M. B., JEFF MURANGIRI, G., & JAMES MUTEI, M. (2025). Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Barriers Influencing Hormonal Contraceptive Utilization among Women Afflicted with Retroviral Disease Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy at a Referral Hospital in Kenya. Journal of Clinical Care and Medical Advancement, 2(1), 47–64. https://doi.org/10.58460/jccma.v2i1.63