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The Utilisation of Modern Contraceptives in Refugee Camps
Nyirimanzi, Joseph Desire; Butare, Bonaventure; Iryanyawera, Marie Claire; Mutamba, Diane; Mugisha, Michel & Kayumba, Pierre Claver
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sexual and reproductive health services are fundamental rights.
However, healthcare providers poorly address reproductive health issues in most
humanitarian crises due to other health competing priorities, resulting in unwanted
pregnancies and short interpregnancy intervals. This study aimed to evaluate the
demand, supply, and utilization of family planning commodities in the Nyabiheke
and Gihembe refugee camps in Rwanda.
METHODS: Data was extracted from family planning registers, electronic Logistics
Management Information System, and the Rwanda Health Management Information
System. We used descriptive statistics to analysze key outcomes such as the number
of refugees who attended Information Education and Communication sessions,
family planning commodities supplied throughout the year 2017, and women who
adhered to various contraceptives methods.
RESULTS: The majority of refugees who attended reproductive sessions were
women (74,4%). Various family planning commodities were supplied in the camps
with high portions of condoms and injectables. The prevalence of family planning
uptake was 40% and 32% in Nyabiheke and Gihembe camps. The most adhered
method was injectable with more than 70%, and the least was Intra Uterine devices
with a proportion of 0.2%.
CONCLUSION: Having optimal family planning commodities available was a
significant determinant of contraceptive uptake. However, much effort is needed to
increase family planning uptake among refugees.
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