Awareness, perception and acceptability of bilateral tubal ligation among women attending antenatal care at Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin-Kebbi

Abstract Background: Contraception is any temporary or permanent measures aimed to prevent conception. Bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) is a surgical and permanent method of contraception offered to women who have completed their family size or aim to limit their family size due to any reason that may negatively affect their lives when the pregnancy is continued. The practices of bilateral tubal ligation in Sub-Saharan African countries is very limited, because of the high desire for a large family size, cultural and religious factors, misconception and fear of the procedure. Aim: To assess the knowledge, perception and acceptability of BTL among women attending Antenatal clinic at Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi. Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between 1st of February to 31st of May, 2025. The needed information was obtained using structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using statistical package for social sciences version 22. Results: This study showed that 75.6% of the participants were aware of bilateral tubal ligation. About 52.9% of them have good perception towards it, and 63.8% of them are ready to accept BTL. Most of those who rejected BTL their reasons were basically the fear of the surgery (43.2%). There is statistically significant relationship between the fear of the procedure and rejection of BTL. Conclusion: The participants have good knowledge, perception and acceptability toward BTL. The main reason for the rejection of the BTL was the fear of the surgery Keywords: Bilateral Tubal ligation, Knowledge, perception, acceptance, Nigerian women.