Factors Affecting Family Planning Adoption in Migrant Communities: A Cross-Sectional Study From Central India

Background and objectives Use of family planning methods among migrant communities is often low due to social disadvantage, frequent mobility, limited access to health services, and prevailing cultural beliefs. These factors contribute to a high unmet need for contraception and increase the risk of unintended pregnancies and related health problems. Evidence regarding knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers to family planning among migrant populations in Central India remains limited. Therefore, this study was undertaken to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding family planning among the Lohpeeta migrant community in Datia, Central India, and to identify barriers influencing the adoption and use of family planning methods. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024, among all eligible individuals in the Lohpeeta community in India. Of 419 residents, 215 met the inclusion criteria. Data on knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive practices were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the findings, and chi-square tests were used to assess associations, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results A total of 215 participants were included in the study, of whom 59.07% (n=127) were men and 40.93% (n=88) were women. The majority were married before the age of 18 years (n=175, 81.40%) and were illiterate (no formal education) (n=163, 75.81%). Awareness of contraceptives was higher among female participants (64.77%); however, overall current use of any contraceptive method was 27.44% (59/215), while regular use was much lower. Condoms (7.91%) and oral contraceptive pills (5.12%) were the most commonly used methods, while sterilisation was reported by 4.65% of the participants. A significant sex difference in attitudes was observed, with 47.24% of male versus 21.59% of female participants considering contraceptives useful (p<0.001). Conclusion Despite moderate awareness, contraceptive use in the community studied remains low due to low education, early marriage, and cultural norms. Policymakers should focus on culturally sensitive interventions, male involvement, mass media campaigns, and easy access to contraceptives to bridge the knowledge-practice gap in migrant and rural populations.