Perceptions and experiences of the use of modern contraceptive methods among multiparous adolescents in Kisangani City, Democratic Republic of Congo

The use of contraceptive methods (MCM) is a problem in Kisangani. The aim of this study is to understand the perceptions and experiences of multiparous adolescent women concerning MCM. To this end, a qualitative study was conducted in March 2025 among multiparous women aged under twenty, using a semi-directive interview. Content analysis was used to help understand their perceptions and experiences. The results highlight the influence of social pressure and interpersonal relationships on the occurrence of the first teenage pregnancy. They also reveal a low level of awareness of MCM among teenagers, and concerns about potential side-effects and lack of resources as barriers to the use of MCM following their negative experience of these methods. The need for awareness and education about MCM was expressed by the respondents. These adolescents recognized the advantages of contraceptives in terms of birth spacing and reproductive control. In short, this study highlights the importance of education and access to reproductive health care in improving the use of modern contraceptive methods and, consequently, the health of multiparous adolescents and their families.