Inequities in Family Planning in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Inequities in reproductive health are widespread, and periodic surveys can trace trends in inequities to guide policies and program implementation.

We examined National Composite Index for Family Planning surveys from 2017 and 2021 that assessed inequities in access to 7 contraceptive methods and traced patterns of discrimination involving 5 subgroups in low- and middle-income countries. These surveys use 10-25 informants in each country who are knowledgeable at the national level. Measures are based on questionnaire ratings on a scale of 1-10.

Access to contraceptive methods averages about half of the maximum of 100%, with substantial variation across regions and countries for the score levels. Score profiles are similar among high-scoring and low-scoring countries, suggesting that access to each method reflects common determinants in the nature of each method and the influences acting upon national family planning programs. Access to short-term methods (pill, injectable, and condom) is much better than for long-term methods (sterilization, intrauterine device, and implant). Community-based distribution of contraceptives averages low, as it is not part of some programs. Over time the scores have improved modestly. Correlations imply that better access leads to more contraceptive use. Inequity of use across wealth groups is less where overall equity has improved. Measures of discrimination against youth, unmarried women, postabortion clients, HIV carriers, and different wealth groups indicate a need for additional policies and considerable latitude for stronger actions by providers.

The surveys in 2017 and 2021 demonstrate both progress and deficiencies for equitable access to contraceptive methods, with highly variable results among regions and countries. Much remains to be done to alleviate discriminatory practices against particular subgroups. Equity has improved for access to contraception and contraceptive use, and it can continue to do so with greater attention to policies and practices in national programs.