Contraception Choice among HIV-Positive Women Utilizing Family Planning Services Integrated with HIV Care at the Antiretroviral Therapy Clinic of Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus from a pregnant HIV-infected woman to her unborn child is one of the ways through which new HIV infections can be acquired. Utilization of contraceptives among HIV-positive women can prevent unintended pregnancies, and the use of dual methods reduces the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections including HIV, hence the need to support contraception in them. This study sought to describe the various choices of contraception used by women accessing family planning services integrated with the antiretroviral therapy facility of Jos University Teaching Hospital. In a retrospective study, relevant information was extracted from the records of all women who had sought contraception in the Family Planning unit of the facility from 1st March 2019 – 29th February 2020. The data obtained was analysed using EPI info 7 statistical software. Results: A total of 137 records were reviewed. The most frequent choice of contraception was hormonal implants (61.3%), while the least frequent choice was using condoms alone (1.5%). Less than half (46.7%) of them used dual contraception. Secondary and tertiary educational status, as well as disclosure of HIV-positive status to partner were significantly associated with utilization of dual contraceptive methods (P value =0.0010 and 0.0245 respectively; Odds ratio =5.8199 and 4.3307 respectively). Conclusion: Integration of family planning services with HIV care as a strategy for the prevention of unintended pregnancy is promoted in this facility but there is need to improve the uptake particularly of dual method of contraception. There is also need for inclusion of IUCD in the choices of contraception offered as this method is highly effective, long lasting and has been proven to be safe in well selected HIV patients. Furthermore, screening the clients to identify unmet needs and implementing strategies to meet those needs would enhance the impact of family planning.