This paper studied the extent of utilization of Modern Birth Control Methods (MBCM) among rural dwellers in
Imo State Nigeria. Three hundred and sixty households were randomly selected and data were obtained from
them with the use of questionnaires and Focus Group Discussion. The results showed that only 30% of the
respondents used MBCM while 57% of them used the traditional birth control methods. The most popular
modern method was the condom (24.2%). This was followed by the IUD, used by only 2.5% of the respondents.
Some of the identified factors that hindered the use of MBCM included perceived negative health reaction, fear of
the unknown effects, cost, spouse’s disapproval, religious belief and inadequate information. For a better
understanding and utilization of MBCM, it is recommended that adequate educational campaign should be
mounted in the rural areas on the advantages of MBCM. This campaign should target the men the more because
they make the major decisions on MBCM use