Strategies to enhance indigenous Ugandan men’s support for the utilisation of LARCs amongst rural women in Uganda: A qualitative study

Abstract

Globally, many women die due to complications related to childbirth either during pregnancy, childbirth or after birth. The use of contraceptives, especially for long-term reversible methods (LARCs), is one of the best interventions to reduce maternal death. LARCs help the mother to delay pregnancy and allow for longer intervals in childbirth spacing. However, the utilisation of LARCs globally and in Uganda remains low because of limited male partner support. The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative research study was to elicit an understanding of perceptions and beliefs of rural indigenous Ugandan men towards the use of LARCs by rural women. Ultimately the study designed strategies to enhance the uptake of those methods. Purposive sampling was used to identify 65 participants for focus group interviews and 30 for individual interviews comprising married men aged 20 to 49 years. The study was conducted in Rubanda and Kiboga districts of Uganda. The researcher used semi-structured questions for individual and focus group interviews. The data analysis was done by transcribing the interviews, sorting the field notes, organising, and storing the data, listening to recordings, and reading field notes and interviews and then coding and categorising the data to build themes emerging on the phenomenon. The study established that there were perceptions and belief systems among rural indigenous Ugandan men regarding the use of LARCs by their rural women, and these acted as barriers to utilisation. These perceptions included side effects, fears, and desires, in addition to cultural and religious beliefs. The study recommends the strengthening of social, behavioural change communication, strengthening of service provision for LARCs and monitoring and evaluation systems for LARCs. Additionally, policymakers should provide a conducive environment for LARCs services provision and the Ministry of Education and Sports, through health training institutions and universities, should prepare pre-service and in-service healthcare workers to provide LARC services.