Patterns and determinants of modern contraceptive use and intention to use contraceptives among Malawian women of reproductive ages (15 - 49 years)

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James Forty

Adzowah Demographic and Research Consultancy, Malawi

: Androl Gynecol: Curr Res

Abstract

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Statement of the problem: Malawi being one of the poorest and with highest population density in the world, population growth is an issue of concern. Fertility is the major determinant of population growth. Malawi’s TFR has been declining over the years. However, the TFR is one of the highest in sub-Saharan Africa despite Malawi having higher contraceptive prevalence rate in the region. This suggests that the use of contraceptives needs to be reinforced but also there is a need to explore the determinants of contraceptive use and intention to use. Studies in Malawi have focused on determinants of contraceptive use among adolescents and rarely on all women of reproductive ages. The purpose of this study is to investigate the patterns and determinants of contraceptive use and intention to use among all women of reproductive ages. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The study used secondary data from 2015 to 16 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey dataset. Logistic regression models were used to establish the factors associated with outcome variables. The study used a conceptual framework based on adopted theory of health seeking behavior. Findings: Controlling for covariates, increase in age and household income is associated with higher use of contraceptives, and increase in education level is associated with the low use. on the other hand, increase in age is associated with low intention to use. Conclusion and significance: Improving household income and educating girls and boys earlier on the need for family planning would be very helpful. Thus, the study recommends on strengthening information, education and communication programmes on family planning.

Biography

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James Forty is a demographer and emerging researcher. He is passionate in the social welfare of people especially women and children as well as people living with disability. James is experienced in research, and monitoring and evaluation of projects within the scope of public health and social science.