Outcome of Motivational Counseling On Perceived Side Effects of Contraceptive Use Among Women of Childbearing Age in Selected Teaching Hospitals, South -West, Nigeria (Published)
Modern contraceptives prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce maternal mortality, yet many women avoid them due to fear of perceived side effects. This fear often leads to reliance on less effective methods, increasing risks of unplanned pregnancies and unsafe abortions. Motivational counselling, though effective in promoting health decisions, is underused in Nigeria to address these concerns. This study explored the impact of motivational counselling on perceived side effects of modern contraceptives among women of childbearing age in selected teaching hospitals in South-West Nigeria. Using a participatory action research design, 78 women from three teaching hospitals participated in 13 focus group discussions. Data were gathered through the four phases of action research such as planning, action, observation, and reflection, and analysed thematically, ensuring trustworthiness through Lincoln and Guba’s standards. The study found the effectiveness of motivational counselling in correcting misconceptions about the side effects of modern contraceptives among women of childbearing age. Participants reported improved understanding, emphasising the importance of addressing side effects during family planning sessions. The study recommends that family planning providers institutionalise motivational counselling focused on side effects, offering clear explanations and management strategies. It also suggests shifting educational focus from contraceptive types to side effects, which often hinder uptake. Furthermore, regular training for healthcare providers on empathetic and culturally sensitive communication is essential.
Keywords: contraceptive use, modern contraceptives, motivational counselling, perceived side effect, women of childbearing age
The Role of Digital Health Tools in Improving Contraceptive Use Among Reproductive Age Women (Published)
This article offers a thorough examination of the connection between contraceptive techniques and digital health technologies, clarifying their crucial roles in family planning and reproductive health. The introductory portion explores various contraceptive techniques, highlighting the significance of personalised decisions that take into account individual circumstances. The article explores a wide range of contraceptive alternatives, including barrier methods like condoms and modern Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) therapies. It acknowledges the impact of these options on making educated decisions about contraception. The article then transitions to the realm of “Digital Health,” exploring the progression of telemedicine and its incorporation of artificial intelligence. The investigation spans several avenues via which digital health technologies are transforming the provision of healthcare, namely in the domain of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The next sections analyse Digital Health Tools (DHTs) and its many manifestations, such as mobile apps, wearable devices, and internet platforms. These instruments are portrayed as catalysts for empowerment, offering knowledge, resources, and assistance pertaining to contraception. The article examines the advantages of digital health technology in improving understanding and compliance with contraceptives, while also analysing possible disadvantages such as difficulties in connecting different systems, fairness issues, and hazards to the privacy of data.
Keywords: contraceptive use, digital health tools, reproductive-age women