Title: Gender-Based analysis of barriers to contraceptive uptake among Post-secondary School students in Iwo LGA, Osun State, Nigeria:
Authors: Ejeh Benedict , Ubi Mary Otanwa, Salahudeen Hajarat
Volume: 10
Issue: 5
Pages: 1-15
Publication Date: 2026/05/28
Abstract:
The study examined barriers to contraceptive uptake among post-secondary school students in Iwo Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 400 respondents selected from four tertiary institutions using multistage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on socio-demographic characteristics, contraceptive knowledge, sources of awareness, methods known, utilization patterns, and barriers to use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Z-test for proportions, and Relative Importance Index (RII) at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that 96.0% of respondents had knowledge of contraceptives, with no significant gender difference (p = 0.847). Ever use of contraceptives was high (92.0%), while current use was low (22.2%), indicating a wide knowledge-practice gap of 73.8%. Chi-square results showed no significant relationship between gender and both knowledge (?² = 0.037, p = 0.847) and current use (?² = 0.007, p = 0.933). The major barriers to contraceptive uptake included fear of side effects, religious beliefs, lack of perceived need, and accessibility challenges. The study concludes that although awareness of contraceptives is very high among students, consistent utilization remains low due to socio-cultural, psychological, and structural barriers rather than gender differences. It is recommended that behavioural change interventions, youth-friendly reproductive health services, and culturally sensitive educational programmes be strengthened to address misconceptions and improve sustained contraceptive use among students.