BC-School of Public Health

Permanent URI for this community

https://repository.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/5353

Browse

Browsing BC-School of Public Health by Author "Mbatah, Jared Adams"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Participation of Community Health Care Workers in Enhancing Long-Acting and Reversible Contraceptives in Married Women in Kilifi County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Mbatah, Jared Adams
    Community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in enhancing the utilization of long-acting and reversible contraceptives (LARCs). Since CHWs serve as trusted sources of information and support within their communities makes them instrumental in enhancing the utilization of LARCs among married women and contributing to improved maternal and reproductive health outcomes. Kenya faces significant challenges in ensuring widespread access to and utilization of LARCs among married women despite the proven benefits of these contraceptive methods in preventing unintended pregnancies and improving maternal and child health outcomes. The study assessed the participation of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in enhancing the utilization of long-acting and reversible contraceptives (LARCs) among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; To determine the level of knowledge of CHWs in enhancing utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya; To establish the health and community support systems available for the CHWs in enhancing utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya; To evaluate the health and community systems barriers that hinder the participation of CHWs in in enhancing utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya; To investigate the resources available for CHWs that can enhance their participation in promoting utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Health Belief Model (HBM). A descriptive research design was adopted, employing both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions were conducted with CHWs, healthcare providers, and community members to gather insights into their experiences, perceptions, and challenges related to LARC promotion. The study was conducted in selected Sub–County hospitals in Kilifi County. The study population was 246 CHWs working in Kilifi County. Study participants will be selected through purposive sampling. The study used structured questionnaires to collect quantitative data. The study also conducted focused group discussions and key informant interviews. Data collected was organized and entered into SPSS Version 24. This was then presented through tables, charts and narratives. Logistic regression was used to assess the levels of association. The strength of the association was measured using a 95% confidence level. The study findings revealed that level of knowledge of CHWs, community support systems, resources available for CHWs did enhance utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. It was concluded that participation of CHWs enhanced utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. Overall, the study findings underscored the importance of equipping CHWs with adequate knowledge, resources, and support to effectively promote LARC utilization among married women in Kilifi County. Addressing the identified barriers and implementing the recommendations can contribute to improving reproductive health outcomes and empowering women to make informed choices about their contraceptive needs.