Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Introduction: In Ghana, almost everyone is aware of family planning, yet use and continuation rates remain modest, often because of side effects. Most research is survey-based or provider-focused, with little emphasis on clients’ personal experiences of side effects or their suggestions for improving services. This qualitative study examined how men and women attending an urban family planning clinic in Accra understand contraceptive options, experience side effects, and wish services could be better. Methods Using an interpretivist, phenomenological approach, 20 adults (10 women, 10 men) in marital or cohabiting relationships were purposively selected at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital in 2026, and audio-recorded in-depth interviews were analysed through reflexive thematic analysis. Results Participants were aware of many methods but had limited, uncertain knowledge of their risks. Side effects such as bleeding and bodily changes were common and were often endured, normalised, or managed by switching methods. Negative experiences spread more widely than positive ones, heightening fear, while predictability and a sense of having no alternative shaped continuation. Participants recommended targeted education, outreach, personalised method matching, and follow-up support such as reminders, and valued respectful, encouraging providers. Conclusions Person-centred counselling and structured follow-up may enhance continuation more effectively than information alone. Policy Implications: Family planning programmes in Ghana and similar settings should move beyond general awareness campaigns to invest in structured, person-centred side-effect counselling, gender-inclusive outreach that engages men, personalised method-matching at first contact, and low-cost follow-up mechanisms such as phone reminders to support continuation and timely switching when side effects arise.</p>