DETERMINANTS OF FAMILY PLANNING SPACING UTILIZATION TO PROMOTE HEALTHY FAMILIES AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE ATTENDING RUKIRA HEALTH CENTER IN NGOMA DISTRICT, RWANDA

Abstract: Background: Family planning is an important public health strategy for improving maternal and child health. Adequate spacing between pregnancies reduces the risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. In Rwanda, family planning services are widely available, but optimal use for birth spacing remains a concern in some communities. This study assessed family planning spacing utilization, methods used, and accessibility factors among women of reproductive age attending Rukira Health Center in Ngoma District. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among women aged 15–49 years attending Rukira Health Center. The minimum sample size was calculated using Fisher’s formula and adjusted for non-response to 416 participants; 426 women participated and completed the questionnaire. Systematic random sampling was used. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Qualitative information from key informant/focus group discussions was used to contextualize selected findings. Ethical approval and informed consent procedures were applied. Results: Current family planning utilization was 52.2% (217/416 reported in the utilization analysis), while 47.8% were not currently using a method but had used family planning previously. The most commonly used current method was the implant (40.6%), followed by injectables (30.0%), pills (16.6%), intrauterine devices (9.2%), lactational amenorrhea (2.3%), and male condoms (1.4%). The main reason for use was spacing births for health reasons (56.7%). Knowledge of the recommended 24–36-month spacing interval was reported among 64.4% in the descriptive results. Community health workers were the main source of family planning information (68.7%). Geographical access was a major challenge: 52.1% lived more than 5 km from a service point, and distance was significantly associated with utilization (χ²=26.391, p<0.001). Method stock-outs were also significantly associated with utilization (χ²=23.574, p<0.001). Partner support showed a strong association with current use (χ²=52.238, p<0.001). Conclusion: Family planning utilization for birth spacing at Rukira Health Center was moderate. Utilization was influenced by geographical access, method availability, side-effect concerns, and partner support. Strengthening community-based information, uninterrupted contraceptive supplies, client-centered counseling, and male/partner engagement may improve continuation and appropriate birth spacing. Keywords: family planning; birth spacing; contraceptive utilization; accessibility; implants; partner support; Rwanda. Title: DETERMINANTS OF FAMILY PLANNING SPACING UTILIZATION TO PROMOTE HEALTHY FAMILIES AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE ATTENDING RUKIRA HEALTH CENTER IN NGOMA DISTRICT, RWANDA Author: Rachel UMUHOZA International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026 Page No: 588-593 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 10-September-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22687009 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/determinants-of-family-planning-spacing-utilization-to-promote-healthy-families-among-women-of-reproductive-age-attending-rukira-health-center-in-ngoma-district-rwanda