Acceptability of the Etonogestrel Contraceptive Implant and Community-Responsive Reproductive Health Services in Tabuk City, Kalinga, Philippines

Contraceptive choice is both a reproductive health and community development issue, relying on women's agencies, equitable information access, responsive institutions, and continuity of care. This study assessed the behavioral acceptability of the etonogestrel implant among women at selected public health facilities in Tabuk City, as well as how users rated the seriousness of implant-related experiences. A descriptive cross-sectional survey included 175 women recruited through convenience sampling at rural health units and barangay health stations. All participants completed profile and behavioral acceptability items; 35 current implant users also rated seriousness on a five-point scale. Data were summarized using frequencies, percentages, means, and ranks. The overall behavioral acceptability mean was 2.18 (three-point scale). Respondents were most willing to disclose health conditions, learn at health facilities, and share implant experiences. Willingness for insertion and readiness to manage possible effects were lowest. Among implant users, the overall seriousness mean was 3.84 (five-point scale), with heavier menstrual bleeding rated highest. These ratings reflect subjective seriousness and do not indicate frequency, clinical severity, or causation. Openness to information and provider engagement did not equate to readiness for insertion or managing effects. Community-responsive services should focus on voluntary, clear counseling; anticipatory guidance; competent insertion and removal; accessible assessment and referral; reliable supplies; confidential feedback; and women's participation in service improvement, rather than solely on implant uptake.