Factors Affecting Utilization of Family Planning Services among Women in Childbearing Age (15-49) in Hargeisa, Somaliland
Journal of Health Policy and Outcomes Research, sa.2, ss.22-32, 2026 (Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.7365/jhpor.2026.2.2
- Dergi Adı: Journal of Health Policy and Outcomes Research
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.22-32
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Africa, Contraceptives, Family planning, Primary care, Somalia, Somaliland, Women health
- Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Background: Family planning (FP) is an essential public health intervention that improves maternal and child health outcomes and contributes to social and economic development. Despite its benefits, FP utilization remains low in Somaliland. This study aimed to assess the utilization of FP services and factors associated with their use among women of reproductive age in Hargeisa, Somaliland. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,152 women aged 15-49 years in Hargeisa. Participants were randomly selected from urban and rural areas and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to assess associations between socio-demographic characteristics and FP utilization outcomes, including previous use, current use, and intention to use FP services. Results: Among the participants, 23.9% reported previous use of FP services, 22.5% were current users, and 22.2% intended to use FP services in the future. Place of residence was significantly associated with all FP utilization outcomes, with women living in urban areas reporting higher utilization and intention to use FP compared with rural women (p < 0.001). Education level, occupation, income status, and several spouse-related socioeconomic characteristics were also significantly associated with FP utilization. Myths and misconceptions about FP, limited partner support, and cultural preferences for larger families were commonly reported barriers to FP use. Conclusion: Family planning utilization remains low among women in Hargeisa, Somaliland. Both socioeconomic and socio-cultural factors influence FP use. Interventions should focus on improving awareness, addressing misconceptions, reducing geographic disparities in access, and engaging men and community leaders to support informed reproductive health decisions.