BACKGROUND:
Family planning is vital for improving women's and families' health in sub-Saharan Africa. It is a core pillar of the Safe Motherhood Initiative, aimed at reducing maternal and infant mortality. Despite this, Mali has one of the lowest contraceptive prevalence rates in West Africa (14.1%). Limited use of reproductive health and family planning (FP) services remains a major factor in maternal and child health complications.

OBJECTIVES:
To assess the knowledge and attitudes of women attending the Kalaban Coro community health center regarding modern contraceptive methods.

METHODS:
A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted among 183 women who met the inclusion criteria. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather data, which was analyzed using SPSS.

RESULTS:
Among the respondents, 60.12% reported using a modern contraceptive method. The majority (52.78%) visited the health center in response to side effects. The main barriers to contraceptive use were opposition from husbands, fear of side effects, and religious beliefs. Despite some knowledge of available methods, misconceptions and sociocultural influences continue to affect women’s choices.

CONCLUSIONS:
The study highlights the relatively low but growing use of modern contraceptives in Kalaban Coro and the critical influence of social, religious, and partner-related factors on women’s decisions. Strengthening education, addressing myths, and involving men and community leaders are essential to improving access and acceptance of family planning.

KEY MESSAGE:
Knowledge, attitudes, women, contraceptives, modern methods Poster session 1 (Group A)