Volume 1 - Issue 3, September - October 2025

This study investigated and compared the utilization of family planning (FP) services among women in rural and urban areas of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Data collected from 422 respondents revealed significant disparities in FP use between the two settings. Overall, 51.2% of women had ever used FP services, with higher utilization among urban women (63.5%) than rural women (38.9%). Current FP use was also greater in urban areas (54.0%) compared to rural areas (30.3%). The leading reason for non-use was the desire for more children (21.8%), followed by fear of side effects (19.0%) and lack of access (18.2%). Oral contraceptives were the most commonly used method (40.4%), and 77.0% of users reported regular use. The main motivator for adoption was perceived health benefits to mothers (37.0%). The findings highlight a clear urban advantage in FP utilization, emphasizing the need for improved rural access, awareness, and health service delivery.