Intention to use Lactational Amenorrhea Method as a family planning by postpartum women in Ethiopia: A multicenter study

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Although the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is one of the safest family planning methods, there is limited evidence regarding intention of women to use it and its associated factors in many settings, including Ethiopia. This study was conducted to assess intention of postpartum women to use LAM and factors affecting associated with it in Ethiopia.

Methods: A multi-center hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on postpartum women who gave birth in six referral hospitals in Ethiopia. Data were collected through face-to-face interview at discharge. Data were analyzed using Stata 17, with descriptive statistics applied as appropriate. Factors linked to LAM use intention were identified via multivariable logistic regression. Finally, the adjusted odds ratio along with the 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported, and statistical significance was declared at a p-value?<?0.05.

Results: Of 3,319 women approached, 3,148 (94.8%) were interviewed, with 1317 (42%) intending to use LAM. Most were 21-30 years (72%), urban (92%), & had vaginal deliveries (78%). Intention to use LAM was associated with urban residence (AOR? 2.38; 95% CI 1.29–4.41), receiving counseling about family planning (AOR?1.29; 95% CI 0.87–1.90), hearing about the importance of LAM (AOR? 1.97; CI: 1.28–3.02), and a history of LAM utilization (AOR? 1.65; 95% CI).

Conclusion: The intention to use LAM as a family planning method was low in Ethiopia. Residence, knowledge about LAM, and prior experience were factors associated with intention to use LAM. Counselling about family planning including LAM is important to increase LAM utilization especially for those who has low access and doesn’t want to use modern contraceptives, LAM is a very effective natural method to use it.