Predictors of Family Planning Choices in Rwanda: Insights from the 2019-2020 Demographic and Health Survey

Family planning is a key public health priority that supports informed reproductive choices. This study examined the socio-demographic determinants influencing contraceptive method preferences among women of reproductive age in Rwanda.

This study employed a cross-sectional design through analysis of data from the 2019-2020 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS). The analysis included 5,578 women aged 15-49 years who were using any contraceptive methods. Logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with the choice between modern and traditional contraceptive methods. A significance level of 5% (p < 0.05) was used to determine the associations.

Overall, 91.1% of contraceptive users reported using modern methods, with implants being the most commonly used (42.9%) and female condoms the least used (0.05%). Factors significantly associated with modern methods choice included living in female-headed households (AOR = 1.22), older age (AOR = 2.68 for ages 30-34), married women (AOR = 1.92), and those in higher wealth quintile (AOR = 1.71). In contrast, living in rural areas (AOR = 0.77) and identifying as Adventist (AOR = 0.68), were associated with lower odds of modern contraceptive choice.

The findings underscore a strong preference for modern contraceptive methods among Rwandan women. However, sociodemographic disparities remain, particularly among rural population and specific religious groups. Tailored family planning policies are needed to address these gaps and ensure equitable access to modern contraceptive methods accross all population subgroups.