Factors Associated with knowledge of the ovulatory period among reproductive age women in Somaliland: a multilevel analysis

Knowledge of the ovulatory period is crucial for effective family planning and fertility management. However, in Somaliland, cultural norms, limited reproductive health education, and inadequate media exposure contribute to poor fertility awareness. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge about the ovulatory period and identify factors associated with it among women of reproductive age in Somaliland. The study was conducted cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the 2020 Somaliland Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS). A total of 9,013 women aged 15–49 years were included. Descriptive statistics summarized participants’ characteristics, Chi-square tests examined associations between covariates and ovulatory knowledge, and multilevel logistic regression models identified individual- and community-level predictors. Descriptive analysis revealed that only 21.3% of women correctly identified the ovulatory period, while 78.7% had incorrect knowledge. Knowledge levels significantly varied across regions, residence, education, and media exposure ( p < 0.001). The multilevel analysis showed that women from Togdheer region (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.24–2.19) were more likely to have correct knowledge compared to those from Awdal, while those living in rural areas (AOR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.47–0.77) were less knowledgeable than urban residents. Higher education (AOR = 2.33, 95% CI: 1.15–4.73) and exposure to family planning information through radio (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.38–2.06) were strong predictors of correct knowledge. Knowledge of the ovulatory period among reproductive-age women in Somaliland remains low. Educational attainment, region, place of residence, and media exposure significantly influence awareness. Strengthening culturally sensitive reproductive health education and promoting media-based awareness can enhance fertility knowledge and support informed decisions regarding family planning.