Knowledge, attitude and practice of long-acting reversible contraception among healthcare workers in Kelantan, Malaysia

Aims: Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) offers numerous advantages in preventing unintended pregnancies; however, its usage in Malaysia remains low.This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) levels regarding LARC provision among primary healthcare workers (HCWs) and identify their associated factors. Methods:A cross-sectional study involving doctors and nurses with at least one year of experience in maternal and child health (MCH) services at health clinics in Kelantan, Malaysia, was conducted between July and September 2023.The level of KAPs towards LARC provision was assessed using a self-administered questionnaire, which was developed and validated by the research team.Results: A total of 190 doctors and nurses were involved in the study [mean (standard deviation) age: 38.36 (7.05) years; female: 86.3%].The mean percentage scores for KAP were 69.1%, 48.1%, and 64.1%.Knowledge of LARC provision was associated with being a doctor [adjusted b=8.40; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.76, 13.05; p<0.001], having formal LARC training (adjusted b=7.47; 95% CI: 2.81, 12.12; p=0.002), and awareness of LARC insertion services in their healthcare facility (adjusted b=8.92; 95% CI: 0.82, 17.02; p=0.031).Additionally, HCWs with more years of experience in MCH service exhibited more favorable attitudes (adjusted b=0.36; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.50; p<0.001) and practices (adjusted b=0.74; 95% CI: 0.43, 1.04; p<0.001) towards LARC provision.Conclusions: HCWs demonstrated relatively high knowledge and practice levels but a less favorable attitude towards LARC provision, with these levels being associated with the categories of HCWs, formal training, awareness of LARC services, and years of experience in MCH.