Evidence on the Reasons and Factors Influencing Contraceptive Nonutilization Among Women of Childbearing Age in Suburban Setting in Sub‐Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review

Family planning and the use of modern contraceptives are pivotal in promoting women's health, enhancing gender equality, and supporting socioeconomic development. However, in many regions, including sub-Saharan Africa, a substantial gap remains in the utilization of modern contraceptives. This scoping review aimed to explore the reasons and factors contributing to contraceptive nonutilization among women of childbearing age in suburban areas in sub-Saharan Africa. The review was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley framework in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The analysis identified the following reasons for contraceptive nonutilization: age-related barriers, cultural, and social influences, gender dynamics and partner involvement, lack of knowledge and misinformation, health system barriers, fear of side effects, and the desire for more children. This review recommends that future research address gaps in understanding age-related barriers to contraceptive use by exploring the unique needs of younger and adult women within the reproductive age group, examining the influence of cultural norms and gender dynamics, and focusing on dispelling misinformation, mitigating health system barriers, and developing interventions to reduce fears of side effects through community-based approaches. Trial Registration: Scoping review registration identification number: Open Science Framework: osf.io/z6937.