TITLE:
Uptake of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives among Women of Childbearing Age Accessing Family Planning Services in Mwansabombwe District, Zambia
AUTHORS:
Hellen Mbewe, Catherine Ngoma, Chisha Jones Simuyemba, Ruth Wahila, Mpunga Marvel Nanyangwe, Janet Mazuba Mweempwa
KEYWORDS:
Uptake of LARC, Knowledge, Attitude
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.6,
June
23,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Family planning remains a critical component of reproductive health and a key strategy for improving maternal and child health outcomes. In Zambia, efforts to expand access to modern contraceptive methods have contributed to increased utilization; however, disparities persist in the use of highly effective methods among women of reproductive age. This study assessed the factors influencing the uptake of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) among women of reproductive age in Mwansabombwe District, Zambia. Method: An analytical cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 200 women aged 15 - 49 years who were accessing family planning services at selected health facilities. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize variables, while inferential statistics, including Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression, were used to determine associations and predictors of LARC uptake. Results: The findings revealed that 51.5% of respondents were using LARC methods, with implants being the most commonly utilized method (68.9%), followed by intrauterine contraceptive devices (31.1%). Overall, 88.5% of respondents had adequate knowledge about LARC; however, detailed knowledge of specific methods was limited. Despite adequate knowledge levels, 66.0% of respondents exhibited negative attitudes towards LARC, largely due to misconceptions such as fear of infertility, pain, and side effects. Inferential analysis showed that knowledge (p Conclusion: The study concludes that LARC uptake in Mwansabombwe District is moderate and is primarily influenced by knowledge and attitudes. Interventions aimed at improving comprehensive knowledge and addressing misconceptions about LARC are essential to enhance utilization. Strengthening community education and counseling services is recommended to promote informed decision-making and increase uptake of long-acting contraceptive methods.