Factors Associated With the Use of Modern Contraceptive Methods among Married Women In The Kinshasa Health Zone, In The City-Province Of Kinshasa

Abstract

Background: Family planning enables couples to make informed reproductive choices. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), modern contraceptive use remains low. This study assessed factors associated with modern contraceptive method (MCM) use among married women in the Kinshasa Health Zone.

Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from August to September 2024 among married women aged 18–49 years in the Kinshasa Health Zone. Of the 382 women initially targeted, 374 were included in the final analysis. Participants were selected using a three-stage probability sampling procedure. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using KoboCollect and analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with MCM use.

Results: The prevalence of MCM use was 21.4%. Although 90.6% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of contraceptive methods, 64.7% reported concerns about side effects, and 41.2% reported using natural methods to prevent pregnancy. Factors significantly associated with MCM use included intention to use contraception (aOR = 11.50), taking precautions to avoid pregnancy (aOR = 9.24), good knowledge of MCMs (aOR = 5.41), recognition of contraceptive benefits (aOR = 3.12), and favorable perceptions of the importance of family planning (aOR = 2.85).

Conclusion: MCM use was associated with knowledge, perceptions, intentions, and pregnancy-prevention practices. Family-planning interventions could address concerns about side effects and improve access to reliable contraceptive information. However, the cross-sectional design precludes causal inference, and further research should examine service-related barriers and partner influence.