Trends and Determinants of Contraceptive Method Choice among Women Aged 15-24 in Kenya

Wambui Kungu, National Council for Population and Development
Alfred Titus Agwanda Otieno, University of Nairobi
Anne Khasakhala, University of Nairobi

Studies show a gap in addressing the reproductive health goals of women aged 15-24 whose inconsistent use of contraception provides high potential for unintended pregnancy and threatens the current gains in contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR). The study aimed to examine factors that influence the choice of contraceptive method for women 15 to 24 years old. The study used calendar data from the KDHS of 2003, 2008/9 and 2014. Results showed a shift towards long term modern contraception methods among primary educated, rural women and towards short term methods for secondary educated women of higher wealth status. Age, education, wealth status and type of region emerged predictors of contraceptive use among young girls. Contraceptive services should be enhanced to allow young women make informed choices concerning their reproductive health to enable them complete school and acquire relevant skills that will lead Kenya to achieving the demographic dividend.