Analysis of the Shifting Profile of Contraceptive Implant Users in Two Districts in Rwanda: An Abstract and Personal Narrative

Though short-acting contraceptive methods have historically been the most common methods used in Rwanda, particularly the injectable, now the implant is the most common contraceptive method used in Rwanda. This study aims to better understand the implant user profile in Rwanda. Data were extracted from family planning client forms located at public family planning clinics and health posts in two districts of Rwanda in 2022 and 2023. Half of the implant users in both districts selected the implant as their first method. Further analysis shows that women who initiate implant use as their first method are on average younger, have fewer children, have no abortion or child death experience, use implants for spacing, and are postpartum as compared to those who switch to implant. These demographic factors do not align with the common profile of implant users being older and having more children. This profile suggests that women who are young and at the start of their childbearing years select an implant as their contraceptive method after the birth of their first child. This trend implies long, effective birth spacing and smaller family size desires, suggesting a shift in family size norms as well as improved family planning education and accessibility within the region, particularly in the postpartum period.