Experiences of women, men and healthcare workers accessing family planning services in Malawi: A grounded theory

Abstract

Background: The importance of modern contraceptive methods in averting unwanted pregnancies has been acknowledged in Malawi. Currently,  the country has registered the highest rates of unsafe abortions, unmet needs for contraception and a low contraceptive prevalence rate.  Understanding why these rates exist is important. However, women’s views and experiences regarding uptake of family planning methods in Malawi  have not been explored.

Methods: A grounded theory methodology was used. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with  women (n = 18), men (n = 10), healthcare workers (n = 10) and non-participant observations of family planning clinic consultations (n = 10). Data  were analysed using constant comparative technique. Methods of open, axial and selective coding enabled subsequent conceptualisations until  theoretical saturation occurred.

Results: The core category ‘disenabling environment prevents women’s family planning needs from being met’ provides an understanding of  women’s, men’s and healthcare workers’ experiences of contraceptive use and non-use. The disenabling environment contributed to shaping  women’s family planning experiences. This was supported by three main categories: navigating the processes, disempowerment of women and  learning by chance.

Conclusion: Findings from this study illuminate contextual issues into how women, men and healthcare workers experience  family planning use and non-use in Malawi. A multifaceted strategy is required to support a woman’s family planning needs. At community level,  awareness and education of family planning methods is required to actively inform all people in society so that they support a woman’s family  planning needs. At national level, laws that   would empower women with decision-making ought to be developed and enforced.