Factors influencing the use of traditional versus modern family planning methods in Bas Zaire

Findings from a baseline survey conducted prior to the initiation of organized family planning efforts in one urban and one rural area of Bas Zaire reveal the widespread use of traditional methods and a surprisingly high level of knowledge of modern contraceptives. However, in the absence of a delivery system, use of the latter was extremely limited (4-5 percent of currently married women). The data reflect a deep-seated motivation for birth spacing, which is achieved primarily through withdrawal and abstinence. Of the variables tested as possible correlates, only economic status was related to use of both traditional and modern methods in the same direction. Use of a traditional method was largely determined by age of the youngest child and breastfeeding status. By contrast, use of a modern method was highest among women over 30 with higher levels of education and parity, who were not currently breastfeeding.