Determinants of contraceptive discontinuation in six developing countries

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Public Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Contraceptive discontinuation is a significant public health issue in developing countries.
• High discontinuation rates increase the risk of unintended pregnancies.
• Understanding discontinuation determinants is crucial for effective family planning programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the factors influencing contraceptive discontinuation in six developing countries.
• To examine the cumulative probabilities of discontinuation at 24 months for reasons other than the desire for another child.
• To identify key predictors of contraceptive method cessation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of Phase I survey data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) program.
• Examination of cumulative discontinuation probabilities for various contraceptive methods.
• Statistical analysis to identify significant predictors of discontinuation.

Main Results:

• Approximately 40% of couples discontinue contraceptive use within 24 months.
• Intrauterine device (IUD) discontinuation is less common than other methods.
• Couple's schooling and residence type showed minimal influence on discontinuation.
• Prior method use, fertility preferences, age, and family size are significant predictors.

Conclusions:

• Contraceptive discontinuation poses a substantial risk of unintended pregnancies in developing nations.
• Targeted interventions focusing on prior use, fertility intentions, and demographic factors are needed.
• Programmatic strategies should consider method-specific discontinuation patterns, such as the lower rates for IUDs.