EC Gynaecology

Research Article Volume 14 Issue 11 - 2025

Contraceptive Use in Nigeria: Challenges and Pathways to Sustainable Solutions

Omobude Mabel Olubunmi1*, Okponavioboh Christy Enosomhanfoh1, Ofogba Lawrentta Enogieru1 and Christine Omorogbe2

1Department of Nursing Sciences, College of Nursing Sciences, Edo State College of Nursing Sciences, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

2Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author: Onobude Mabel Olubunmi, Department of Nursing Sciences, College of Nursing Sciences, Edo State College of Nursing Sciences, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
Received: October 18, 2025; Published: November 12, 2025



Background: Contraceptive uptake in Nigeria remains low, despite its proven benefits in reducing unintended pregnancies, maternal morbidity and mortality, and unsafe abortions. Like many Sub-Saharan African countries, Nigeria faces a high rate of unmet need for family planning, largely due to persistent socio-cultural and systemic barriers.

Objectives: This paper examines the current state of contraceptive use in Nigeria, with the aim of identifying key challenges and proposing actionable solutions. It explores the concept of contraception, current prevalence and usage patterns, influencing factors, and barriers to access and utilisation.

Methods: A desk-based narrative review was conducted using data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) and relevant peer-reviewed literature. Trends in contraceptive use among married and unmarried women aged 15-49 were analysed, alongside factors influencing uptake.

Results: As of 2018, the contraceptive prevalence rate among married women was 17%-12% used modern methods, while 5% relied on traditional methods. Among sexually active unmarried women, 28% used modern methods, with male condoms (19%) being the most common. Factors influencing use include age, education, religion, socioeconomic status, fertility preferences, residence, and attitudes. Key barriers include cost, distance to health facilities, limited availability of methods, fear of side effects, misinformation, and limited male involvement.

Conclusion: Nigeria’s contraceptive prevalence remains far below the government’s target of 27%. Addressing these gaps requires multi-sectoral strategies involving increased government investment, improved access to services especially in rural areas and greater community and male engagement in family planning efforts.

 Keywords: Contraceptive Use; Family Planning; Reproductive Health; Nigeria; Barriers and Solutions

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Omobude Mabel Olubunmi., et al. “Contraceptive Use in Nigeria: Challenges and Pathways to Sustainable Solutions”. EC Gynaecology  14.11 (2025): 01-14.

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