Family Planning Preferences, Awareness, and Utilization among Women of Childbearing Age in Shani Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria

Family planning is a major Pillar of maternal and child health, reducing unintended pregnancies, and supporting household wellbeing. However, utilization remains a challenge in many hard-to-reach underserved communities and socio-economically disadvantaged settings. This study examined family planning awareness, preferences, utilization, and barriers among women of childbearing age in Shani Local Government Area (LGA), Borno State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design using a mixed-methods approach was employed. Structured questionnaires were administered to 386 women aged 15 - 49 years, with 380 valid responses analyzed. Quantitative findings were complemented by qualitative insights to strengthen interpretation. Most respondents were aged 28 - 37 years, married, had secondary education, and were mainly farmers or housewives. Household income was generally low, and most women had between one and five children. Awareness of family planning was limited, with only about half of the respondents reporting prior knowledge. Information was largely obtained through informal networks such as friends and family, while formal health systems and mass media contributed minimally. Utilization was moderate, with just over half reporting previous use of any method, and fewer than half being current users. Sterilization and injectable contraceptives were the most commonly used methods. Fear of side effects, cultural and religious beliefs, and inadequate knowledge were the major barriers to utilization. Despite these challenges, most women perceived family planning as important and beneficial to women’s health. However, concerns about safety and limited access to services persisted. The study concludes that family planning uptake in Shani LGA is constrained by socio-cultural factors, misconceptions, and service delivery gaps. Community-based education, improved access to services, and engagement of religious leaders and male partners are recommended to enhance utilization.