Introduction

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines women with an unmet need for contraception as those who are capable of reproduction and engage in sexual activity yet do not utilise any form of contraception and express a desire to either not have any more children or to postpone their subsequent pregnancy [1]. This indicator is crucial as it serves as the foundation for delivering contraceptive services and assessing a country’s adherence to the reproductive health rights of its population [2]. The widespread acceptance of contraceptives as an effective means of regulating fertility is widely recognized. It has a pivotal role in enhancing the health and overall welfare of women [3]. Furthermore, the significance of maternal health is emphasised in the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which seeks to ensure the widespread availability of sexual and reproductive health services and reduce maternal death rates by 2030 [4, 5]. Unmet demands for contraception contribute to unsafe abortions, sexually transmitted infections, raised fertility rates associated with poverty, high maternal death rates, and poor employment [6].

Contraceptives are well recognised as crucial features for regulating fertility [7] and play a significant role in the reproductive health of women, particularly adolescent and young women (AYW) who wish to control the timing and number of children they have [2]. While contraceptives have been deemed successful in regulating fertility, their utilisation among AYW in SSA continues to be a pressing concern that requires immediate attention [8, 9]. Research has shown that AYW in SSA expresses a willingness to use contraceptives, but a significant number of them have difficulties accessing contraceptive services [10, 11]. An effective way to assess the difference between the demand for and availability of contraception is by calculating the unmet need for contraception [12].

Sierra Leone has a poor contraceptive prevalence rate and a significant unmet need for family planning compared to other countries in SSA [13]. Based on the 2019 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS), a mere 21% of women aged 15–49 who were married or cohabiting were utilising any contraception, while 28% expressed a desire for family planning but were not receiving it [13]. These statistics suggest that there is an imbalance between the need for and availability of contraceptive services in the country, putting many women at risk of unwanted pregnancies and the resulting consequences.

Previous studies [12, 14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22] have found that the determinants of the unmet need for contraception are multifaceted and encompass various factors such as age, education, income level, marital status, employment, parity, awareness of family planning, exposure to media, place of residence (rural or urban), region, sex of household head, and respondent decision making.

Sierra Leone has made significant strides in recent years in promoting family planning and improving access to reproductive health services. Sierra Leone’s policy environment is generally supportive of family planning. The country has committed to the FP2030 initiative, which aims to ensure that all women and girls have access to modern contraception by 2030 [23]. Increasing the availability of contraceptives in health facilities, training health care providers on counselling and providing family planning services, community-based outreach programs to raise awareness about family planning, and educational campaigns to address misconceptions about contraception are the interventions being implemented to address the challenges of access, awareness, and knowledge of contraceptives in Sierra Leone [24]. Despite the progress that has been made, there are still a number of challenges to overcome in ensuring that all Sierra Leoneans have access to family planning services. Limited funding for family planning programs, weak health system infrastructure, cultural and religious barriers to family planning, and gender inequality are some of the barriers in Sierra Leone [24].

Despite the high unmet need, there is limited research on the specific factors that contribute to it in Sierra Leone. This makes it challenging to develop effective interventions to address the problem. Understanding the specific drivers of unmet needs can help to tailor interventions to address the most pressing issues. This study aims to explore the drivers associated with the unmet need for contraception among AYW in Sierra Leone, with the intention of providing suggestions to policymakers in the country. By shedding light on these complex and interconnected factors, we can pave the way for a future where young women in Sierra Leone have the power to make informed choices about their reproductive health and chart their destinies.

Methods

Data source and design

The 2019 SLDHS data was used for this study [25]. SLDHS was conducted over four months (from May 2019 to August 2019) to gather data on demographic, health, and nutritional factors among women, children, and men [13]. A cross-sectional design was adopted for the SLDHS, and respondents were sampled using a multistage sampling method. In the first stage, 578 enumeration areas (EAs), consisting of 214 urban and 364 rural regions, were selected. A systematic selection procedure was employed for the second stage to select 24 households from each EA. This selection process ultimately resulted in a sample size of 13,872 households [13]. The literature [13] provides a comprehensive explanation of the study methodology. This study included 1,796 married and cohabiting AYW aged 15 to 24 who had complete cases of variables of interest from the SLDHS. The dataset was accessed following the procedures outlined on the official DHS program website [25]. The study adhered to the Strengthening Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines [26].

Study variables

Outcome variable

The study outcome variable was the unmet need for contraception. This was derived when AYW were asked whether they had an unmet need for contraception or not. The corresponding replies included never had sex, unmet need for spacing, unmet need for limiting, infecund/menopausal, no unmet need, using for limiting, using for spacing and not married and have not engaged in sexual intercourse in the past 30 days. Based on the classification of this variable in prior research [12, 14,15,16,17,18], AYW who had never engaged in sexual activity and those who were unable to conceive or experiencing menopause were excluded from the study. To get a binary outcome, the remaining responses were classified into two categories: 0 and 1. The value 0 reflected the absence of any unmet need, including the use of contraception for spacing or limiting purposes. On the other hand, value 1 indicated the presence of unmet need, either for spacing or limiting purposes.

Explanatory variables

Seventeen explanatory variables were included in the study. The variables include the age of the women, place of residence, level of education, wealth index, employment status, region, parity, marital status, sex of household head, exposure to media (newspapers/magazines, radio, and television), exposure to family planning messages(radio, tv, newspapers/magazines and text messages) and decision making on respondent health care. These variables were selected based on their statistically significant association with the unmet need for contraception from previous studies [14,15,16, 19,20,21,22] and their availability in the DHS data. Table 1 shows the categories of the variables included in the study.

Data analysis

The data was analysed using SPSS version 28. Percentages were used to present the prevalence of unmet need for contraception among AYW and their distribution across the explanatory variables. A chi-square test of independence was conducted to determine the variables significantly associated with the unmet need for contraception at p < 0.05. The variance inflation factor (VIF) was used to test for evidence of collinearity among the variables studied. The results showed that the highest and lowest VIF were 2.57 and 1.02. Hence, there was no evidence of high collinearity among the variables. Later, binary logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the variables associated with the unmet need for contraception. Two models were used. The first model was the bivariable analysis that examined the independent association between each explanatory variable and the unmet need for contraception. The last model was the multivariable analysis containing all the explanatory variables. The results were presented using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with their respective 95% confidence interval (CI). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Prevalence of unmet need for contraception among adolescents and young women in Sierra Leone

Figure 1 shows the results of the prevalence of unmet need for contraception among adolescents and young women in Sierra Leone. The results indicated that 29% of Sierra Leonean AYW had an unmet need for contraception.

Fig. 1
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Prevalence of unmet need for contraception among adolescents and young women

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Distribution of unmet need for contraception among adolescent and young women in Sierra Leone

Table 1 shows the distribution of the unmet need for contraception among AYW across the explanatory variables. AYW aged 20–24 (73.8%) live in rural areas (63,5%), have secondary/higher education(45.1%), and have males as household heads (80.3%) had high unmet need for contraception. There were variations in the unmet need for contraception in relation to exposure to family planning messages via TV, radio, newspaper or magazines, text messages and the frequency of reading newspapers or magazines, listening to radio, and watching television. Poorer AYW(23.8%), have one birth(46.8%), married (83.0%), currently working (67.5%), and respondent and others decide on respondents’ healthcare(94.2%) all had a high unmet need for contraception.

Table 1 Distribution of unmet need for contraception among adolescent and young women in Sierra Leone (n = 1796)
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Factors associated with unmet need for contraception among adolescents and young women in Sierra Leone

Table 2 shows the results of the factors associated with the unmet need for contraception among AYW in Sierra Leone. AYW with three or more births(AOR = 6.80, 95% CI = 3.97, 11.65), two births (AOR = 4.11, 95% CI = 2.50, 6.76), one birth (AOR = 4.40, 95% CI = 2.81, 6.88), heard family planning on TV last few months (AOR = 1.94, 95% CI = 0.98, 3.83), and are cohabiting (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.29, 2.75) had higher odds of unmet need for contraception. AYW who read the newspaper or magazine at least once a week (AOR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.01, 1.10) had lower odds of unmet need for contraception.

Table 2 Factors associated with unmet need for contraception among adolescents and young women in Sierra Leone
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Discussion

The study examined the unmet need for contraception among married and cohabiting AYW in Sierra Leone. Our study found a high (29%) prevalence of unmet need for contraception among AYWs in Sierra Leone. The findings of our study are higher than the overall prevalence of unmet need for contraception in high fertility countries in SSA [15], Ethiopia [22], and Nigeria [27]. The findings from our study, however, are lower than the findings reported in Papua New Guinea [14], Burundi [28], and Ghana [21]. Several reasons contribute to the high unmet need for contraception among AYWs in Sierra Leone. Many AYWs, especially in rural areas, may lack access to health facilities offering family planning services. Long distances and transportation costs can be significant hurdles [29]. Many AYWs lack accurate information about their bodies, reproductive health, and contraceptive options due to limited access to quality CSE in schools and communities [30]. Misconceptions and negative attitudes towards contraception, fueled by cultural beliefs and social norms, can deter AYWs from seeking or using them [30]. Even when available, contraceptives may be unaffordable for many AYWs, especially those from low-income families [31]. These factors interact and reinforce each other, creating a complex landscape that fuels the high unmet need for contraception among AYWs in Sierra Leone. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that tackles access, knowledge, socio-economic barriers, and policy gaps, working with communities, healthcare systems, and policymakers to create an environment where AYWs can make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.

The study found that AYW with child/children had higher odds of unmet need for contraception than those with no births. The findings from our study are consistent with the previous studies [14, 15]. Raising multiple children can strain finances, making it challenging to afford contraceptives, especially if they are not subsidised or readily available. Cultural norms or power dynamics within relationships might restrict their ability to negotiate condom use or access other methods independently [32]. Fear of judgment or repercussions from family or community members for using contraception might deter them from seeking or using methods [33]. Some healthcare providers might hold negative attitudes towards young mothers seeking contraception, leading to inadequate counselling or limited method options offered [34]. Previous negative experiences with specific methods (e.g., side effects) might make them hesitant to try contraception again [34]. Addressing this issue requires interventions that combine increased access to affordable methods, comprehensive sexuality education, and empowering AYWs to make informed choices about their health and fertility.

The study found that AYW who are cohabiting had higher odds of unmet need for contraception than those who are married. The findings from our study are consistent with the previous studies [14, 15]. Unmarried AYWs might face objections from their partners in using contraceptives [35]. Young women in cohabiting relationships might have less financial autonomy compared to married women, making it harder to afford contraceptives independently [36]. Unmarried young women might have less family support compared to married women, reducing their access to financial resources or encouragement to prioritise their reproductive health. Addressing this issue requires ensuring equal access to services, as well as addressing socio-cultural stigma and power dynamics. Empowering these young women with information, negotiation skills, and access to confidential healthcare services is crucial in meeting their reproductive health needs.

Our study found that AYWs who heard family planning messages on TV had higher odds of unmet need for contraception than those who didn’t. While it might seem counterintuitive, It’s important to remember that correlation doesn’t necessarily imply causation [37], meaning exposure to information on TV doesn’t automatically translate to access or actual use. Hearing about family planning on TV might raise awareness and desire for contraception, but it doesn’t guarantee access to services or the specific methods they need. Our study also found that AYWs who read newspapers or magazines at least once a week have lower odds of unmet need for contraception than those who don’t. Newspapers and magazines may offer diverse viewpoints on reproductive health and contraception, challenging myths and stigma and promoting informed decision-making [38]. Exposure to accurate information can build confidence in understanding individual needs and navigating healthcare systems to access desired methods [39]. Regular newspaper or magazine readership generally suggests higher education levels and potentially better incomes, leading to greater opportunity and ability to afford contraception. Future research should explore specific mechanisms at play and consider how to improve access to accurate information and empower all AYWs, regardless of their media consumption habits, to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.

Policy and practice implications

Based on the study findings, several policy and practice implications can be considered to address the 29% unmet need for contraception among adolescents and young women in Sierra Leone. Government and partner organisations should dedicate resources to expand services, improve supply chains, and subsidise contraceptives for those who cannot afford them. Integrate family planning into national health priorities and budgets. Promote gender equality and empower AYWs through CSE that includes information about contraceptive methods and empowers them to negotiate their sexual health needs. Engage community leaders and religious groups to address misconceptions and stigma around contraception. Expand family planning services in health facilities, schools, and community settings, including mobile clinics and outreach programs. Train healthcare providers on AYWs’ specific needs and ensure respectful and non-judgmental counselling. They should offer a wide range of contraceptive methods by ensuring that all approved methods are available, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) and emergency contraception—train providers in counselling and fitting different methods to address individual needs and preferences. Integrate CSE into school curricula and community programs. Equip AYWs with knowledge about their bodies, reproductive health, and negotiating power within relationships. Foster peer support networks and safe spaces for AYWs to discuss their concerns and access information. By addressing these policy and practice recommendations, Sierra Leone can move towards reducing the unmet need for contraception and ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health services for all AYWs, ultimately contributing to their well-being and improved life outcomes.

Strengths and limitations

The key strength of this study is the use of the SLDHS, which provides information on a large and representative sample of AYWs across Sierra Leone, allowing for generalizable conclusions about the population. The survey collects a wide range of demographic, socio-economic, and reproductive health data, enabling the exploration of various factors associated with the unmet need for contraception. The study, however, has some limitations. The survey cannot establish causal relationships between factors and unmet needs. More research using longitudinal or intervention studies is needed. Reliance on self-reported data might introduce biases due to recall errors or social desirability. The survey may not capture specific reasons for unmet needs beyond broad categories like media exposure or cohabitation. Qualitative research may provide deeper insights. This study offers a valuable starting point for exploring the drivers of the unmet need for contraception among AYWs in Sierra Leone. However, its limitations highlight the need for further research using complementary methods and more recent data to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue and develop effective interventions.

Conclusion

The study found a high unmet need among AYW in Sierra Leone, which indicates a significant gap between desired and actual contraceptive use, leading to unintended pregnancies and potentially adverse health and socio-economic consequences. Parity, media exposure and cohabitation were associated with a higher unmet need for contraception and newspaper/magazine readership was associated with a lower unmet need for contraception. The study highlights the need to increase access to affordable and diverse contraceptive options, especially in rural areas. Expand educational campaigns beyond TV to include print media and community-based interventions. Empower AYWs with information and agency to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.