Long-Acting Contraceptive Switching and Its Associated Factors among Married Women in Southwest Ethiopia

Introduction Contraceptive switching from a more effective to a less effective method is a concern, especially in developing countries with high unmet needs for family planning. Indeed, the lack of understanding regarding the reasons behind contraceptive switching behavior in the study area poses a significant challenge in effectively addressing this issue. Objective This study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors associated with long-acting contraceptive switching in Mizan-Aman town, southwest Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 345 women randomly selected from the population of married women in their reproductive age group. Data collection was conducted through interviewer-administered questionnaires. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to ascertain factors linked with contraceptive method switching status. Statistical significance was determined at a P-value of less than .05. Results Out of the 345 participants interviewed, the prevalence of switching from long-acting to short-acting contraceptives was 28.4%, 95% CI (13.6%, 33.2%). Upon adjusting for confounding variables, factors significantly associated with contraceptive switching included women aged 31–35 [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.58; 95% CI (0.36, 0.74)] and aged 41–49 [AOR = 0.54; 95% CI (0.48, 0.82)], those with formal education [AOR = 0.79; 95% CI (0.52, 0.87)], those desiring future pregnancy [AOR = 2.12; 95% CI (1.98, 3.38)], experiencing complications from previous method use [AOR = 3.67; 95% CI (2.57, 7.40)], and encountering stockouts of their preferred contraceptive choice [AOR = 2.01; 95% CI (1.39, 3.24)]. Conclusion and recommendation The study area exhibited a notable prevalence of switching from long-acting contraceptives. Complications arising from prior method use and the unavailability of preferred contraceptive options emerged as significant factors influencing this switching behavior. Thus, it underscores the importance of providing counseling and ongoing support to women, ensuring access to safer and more effective modern contraceptive methods.