Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Modern Contraceptive Use among Adolescent Girls in Muhanga District, Rwanda

Abstract: Modern contraceptive use is an effective strategy for preventing unintended pregnancies among adolescent girls and young women. However, its utilization is influenced by socio-demographic, cultural, and behavioral factors. This study assessed the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding modern contraceptive use and identified factors associated with its utilization among adolescent girls aged 15–19 years in Muhanga District, Rwanda. A cross-sectional study design was employed among 398 adolescent girls selected using the Yamane formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were conducted to examine factors associated with modern contraceptive use. Ethical approval and informed consent procedures were observed before data collection. The mean age of respondents was 17.3 years, with those aged 18 years constituting the largest proportion (29.2%). Most respondents were attending secondary school (60.1%), were Catholic (44.2%), lived with parents or guardians (91.2%), and were covered by Mutuelle de Santé (97.2%). Overall, 56.2% of respondents had a high level of knowledge about modern contraceptive use, while 29.1% had a low level of knowledge. Regarding attitudes, 69.3% demonstrated a positive attitude toward modern contraceptive use, whereas 36.1% demonstrated a negative attitude. The prevalence of lifetime modern contraceptive use was 33.4%. Bivariate analysis identified significant associations between contraceptive use and age, living arrangement, awareness of risks associated with unprotected sex, and discussion of sexual and reproductive health. In multivariable logistic regression, age, awareness of risks associated with unprotected sex, and discussion of sexual and reproductive health remained significant independent predictors of modern contraceptive use. The findings indicate that despite relatively high knowledge and generally positive attitudes, modern contraceptive use among adolescent girls remains limited. Strengthening adolescent-friendly reproductive health services in schools and health facilities, with emphasis on accessibility, confidentiality, accurate information, and supportive communication, may contribute to increased contraceptive uptake and reduced unintended and teenage pregnancies. Keywords: KAP, Modern Contraceptive, Adolescent Girls, Southern Province, Rwanda. Title: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Modern Contraceptive Use among Adolescent Girls in Muhanga District, Rwanda Author: NYIRARUKUNDO LEONILLE, Dr. Japheths OGENDI International Journal of Life Sciences Research ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online) Vol. 14, Issue 4, October 2026 - December 2026 Page No: 21-33 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 13-October-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23338771 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/knowledge-attitude-and-practice-of-modern-contraceptive-use-among-adolescent-girls-in-muhanga-district-rwanda