Abstract

This study examines the knowledge and practices of preventive measures against unwanted pregnancy among female youths aged 15-25 in the Ekona community, a rural area where unintended pregnancies pose social, economic, and health challenges. Unintended pregnancies among young women often lead to increased dropout rates, limited career prospects, and health risks, making it critical to assess awareness levels and accessibility of preventive resources for this population. Understanding the preventive measures that young women are aware of, and actually use, can inform interventions to reduce unwanted pregnancies and improve reproductive health outcomes.

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1000 female youths in Ekona using structured questionnaires. The questionnaire assessed participants’ awareness of contraceptive methods, knowledge of their effectiveness, attitudes toward usage, and sources of information on reproductive health. Data were analyzed quantitatively to determine knowledge levels, perceived barriers, and factors influencing the adoption of preventive practices. In addition, focus group discussions provided qualitative insights into the social and cultural factors impacting contraceptive use and family planning decisions among this age group.

The findings revealed that while 70% of respondents were aware of at least one form of contraception, only 40% reported using any form of preventive measure consistently. The most common contraceptive methods known were condoms, oral pills, and emergency contraception, although misconceptions about side effects and long-term impacts were prevalent. Barriers identified included lack of access to affordable contraceptive methods, cultural stigma, limited parental guidance, and inadequate reproductive health education. Social influences, such as peer advice and community norms, significantly affected attitudes toward contraceptive use, with 55% of participants expressing concerns over being judged for seeking reproductive health services.

The study concludes that while knowledge of preventive measures is relatively widespread among young women in Ekona, actual usage rates remain low due to cultural and logistical barriers. Effective interventions should focus on community-based reproductive health education that addresses misconceptions, provides clear information on contraceptive safety, and reduces stigma surrounding contraceptive use. Local healthcare providers could play a vital role in increasing access to affordable contraceptives and offering youth-friendly services. The study suggests that enhancing awareness, addressing cultural norms, and providing accessible resources could collectively reduce unwanted pregnancies among female youths in Ekona.

Keywords: Unwanted pregnancy, preventive measures, contraception, female youths, Ekona community, reproductive health.