Abstract: World Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Research

Abstract:
Family planning remains a critical public health intervention for improving maternal and child health out comes, particularly in conflict-affected and resource-constrained settings. This study assessed family planning awareness, preferences, utilization, and barriers among women of childbearing age in Shani Local Govern ment Area (LGA. A descriptive cross-sectional study design employing a mixed-methods approach was used. Structured questionnaires were administered to 386 women aged 15–49 years, of which 380 valid responses (95%) were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative insights were obtained through focus group dis cussions to complement quantitative findings. Most respondents were aged 28–37 years, married, had second ary education, and reported low household income. Awareness of family planning was limited, with only half of the respondents reporting prior knowledge of family planning methods. Information sources were predom inantly informal, including friends and family, while health facilities and mass media contributed minimally. Utilization was moderate. Fear of side effects, socio-cultural and religious beliefs, and inadequate knowledge emerged as major barriers to utilization. Despite these constraints, the majority of respondents perceived fam ily planning as important for improving women’s health and family wellbeing. Access to services was limited, yet many respondents expressed willingness to switch methods or recommend family planning if their concerns were adequately addressed. The findings indicate that although attitudes toward family planning are generally positive, utilization remains suboptimal due to persistent socio-cultural barriers, fear of adverse effects, and poor service accessibility. Strengthening community-based education, improving service delivery, and engag ing religious leaders and male partners are critical for enhancing family planning.