Abstract:
Women worldwide experience either an unplanned pregnancy or unwanted pregnancy, which is a result of not using contraceptives or perceiving contraceptives differently. The aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions of unmarried women towards contraceptives use at Tshilapfene village in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province. The study utilised a qualitative research approach which was explorative and descriptive in nature. The population for this study were women with parity and the target population were unmarried women with one and more children residing in Tshilapfene village. A non-probability purposive sampling was utilized to select the women at Tshilapfene village. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interview guide and field-notes recorded, data was analysed thematically. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and the code of ethics to protect the rights of the participants were applied and observed. Findings revealed that men are the primary decision maker of reproductive health on their women. Majority of women were reluctant to use contraceptives due to side effects. Based on the findings, researcher recommends that, men should be educated about contraceptives.Health care workers should educate women about different types of contraceptives and their benefits so that they can have a choice. When a woman wants to switch from using contraceptives due to side effects, health care workers should advise them on other types of contraceptive.
