Factors influencing an intention to use intrauterine device among family planning users in Southwestern Ethiopia

Abstract Introduction: An intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective long-acting and reversible contraceptive method widely available around the world and safe for nearly all women. However, very few women in Southwestern Ethiopia use. Objectives: To identify factors influencing an intention to use the intrauterine device among family planning users in Southwestern, Ethiopia. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 784 modern family planning users from 15 th October to 15 th November 2020. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used. Estimates were generated using logistic regression model. Results: Thirty percent intended to use IUD. The most commonly cited reasons for their lack of an intention to use IUD were fear of side effects, lack of knowledge, and husband disapproval. Being able to read and write (AOR = 3.33 [95% C.I. 1.48, 7.49]) compared to those unable to read and write; Being rich (AOR = 1.69 [95% C.I. 1.02, 2.82]) compared to the poor; being knowledgeable about IUD (AOR = 2.74 [95% C.I. [1.67, 4.51]); having higher reproductive health autonomy (AOR = 1.53 [95% C.I. [1.09, 2.16]) were found to be significant factors influencing women’s intention to use an IUD. Conclusion: Nearly one-third of women who attend health facilities are currently using contraception reported an intention to use an IUD in the future. Public health interventions should focus on the cited reasons reaching all the community in need, and give priority for women who unable read and write, and lowest wealth status. Further interventional studies were recommended to determine effective interventions to increase women’s intention to use intrauterine device.