Urban–Rural Disparities in Contraceptive Access and Use among Women of Reproductive Age in the Caraga Region, Philippines

Background. Despite the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act, disparities in access to reproductive health information and family planning services continue to contribute to unmet contraceptive needs among women of reproductive age (WRA) in the Philippines. Area classification (urban versus rural) has been recognized as an important determinant of contraceptive behaviors; however, evidence comparing these disparities in the Caraga Region remains limited.

Objective. The study aims to determine the influence of area classification disparities on contraceptive use and nonuse among Women of Reproductive Age in the Caraga Region, Mindanao, Philippines.

Methods. The study employed a descriptive correlational research design. The study respondents are Women of Reproductive Age. The age range covers 15-49 years old. The area classification of the respondents was determined and tested for correlation with contraceptive use and non-use. This includes the number of known contraceptives and their uses, factors for contraceptive use and non-use, and contraceptive sources of information.

Results. The area classification and the number of known contraceptives and their use have no significant relationship. These have p-values higher than the significance level (0.241; 0.163). The area classification disparities and reasons for using contraceptives (Child Spacing and Avoiding unplanned pregnancy) have no significant relationship. This has a p-value of 0.858 and 0.969. On the other hand, area classification and the factor for not using contraceptives (fear of side effects) are significantly associated. This has a p-value of 0.042. Lastly, the public clinic, as the frequently visited health facility, and lectures, as well as family planning professionals, are also significantly correlated (P-values: 0.001, 0.007, and 0.003).

Conclusion. The key significant disparities revealed that urban WRA respondents have a higher tendency to fear side effects as a factor for contraceptive non-use and family planning lectures as the source of contraceptive information. On the other hand, rural WRA respondents have public clinics as the frequently visited health facility and family planning professionals as the source of contraceptive information.