Prevalence and factors associated with covert contraceptive use in Kenya: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Family planning (FP) is a key intervention for preventing unplanned pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal death. Involvement of both women their partners promotes contraceptive acceptance, uptake continuation, couple communication gender-equitable attitude. Partner involvement strategy addressing about 17.5% the unmet needs in FP Kenya. This study assessed prevalence factors associated with covert use (CCU) Methods We used data from sixth seventh rounds performance monitoring accountability surveys. defined CCU as “the contraceptives without partner’s knowledge”. frequencies percentages to describe sample characteristics using bivariate multivariable logistic regressions. Results The was 12.2% (95% CI: 10.4–14.2%); highest among uneducated (22.3%) poorest (18.2%) 35–49 years-old (12.8%) women. Injectables (53.3%) implants (34.6%) were commonest methods who practice CCU. In analysis, Siaya county, rural residence, education, wealth, age at sexual debut On adjusting covariates, odds increased (aOR 3.79, 95% CI 1.73–8.31), primary education 1.86, 1.06–3.29) those 2.67, 1.61–4.45), poorer 1.79, 1.05–3.04), middle 2.40, 1.52–3.78) household wealth quintiles reduced 2–3 0.49, 0.33–0.72) ≥ 4 children 0.62, 0.40–0.96). Age 0.94, 0.89–0.99) Conclusion About one 10 married Kenya covertly, injectables being preferred methods. Our highlights gap partner calls efforts strengthen increase while acknowledging women’s right make independent choices.