Women’s Perceptions of Education, Household Income and Child Spacing in Funtua Local Government Area, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Short birth intervals remain common in Nigeria, yet evidence from the north on how women understand the roles of education and household income in child spacing is thin.

Objectives: This study examined women’s perceptions of the relationship between education, household income and child spacing in Funtua Local Government Area (LGA), Katsina State, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, supplemented by key-informant interviews with health workers. A structured questionnaire was administered through non-probability (judgmental) sampling to women of reproductive age in three health facilities and the community. Of the 381 questionnaires distributed, 354 were returned (92.9% response rate). Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, 95% confidence intervals and exact binomial tests of agreement against 50%, while interview accounts were summarised thematically.

Results: Between 73% and 89% of respondents agreed with seven of the eight statements concerning education, awareness, cultural norms and household income. Agreement was lowest (58%) for the statement that wealthy couples have little time for many children. Agreement exceeded 50% for all statements, with exact binomial tests yielding p-values below 0.01.

Conclusion: Respondents perceive education and household income as important factors influencing child spacing, while limited awareness and educational opportunities are perceived as more significant barriers than tradition. However, because the study used non-probability sampling and measured perceptions rather than actual behaviour, the findings should be interpreted cautiously. Strengthening girls’ education and improving affordable access to child-spacing services are important priorities emerging from the study.