Reproductive change in Sri Lanka: analysis of intermediate variables, 1982 and 1987

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• Fertility rates in Sri Lanka have been a subject of demographic study.
• Understanding intermediate fertility determinants is crucial for public health policy.
• Previous research indicated varying factors influencing fertility trends in the region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the intermediate determinants of fertility in Sri Lanka.
• To assess the impact of the national family planning program on fertility levels.
• To identify key factors for achieving replacement-level fertility.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the 1982 Sri Lanka Contraceptive Prevalence Survey.
• Employed data from the 1987 Sri Lanka Demographic and Health Survey.
• Conducted statistical analysis to identify fertility inhibitors.

Main Results:

• Deliberate fertility control emerged as the most significant inhibitor.
• Marital structure was identified as another key factor influencing fertility.
• Lactational infecundability's contribution to fertility inhibition has diminished.

Conclusions:

• Sri Lanka's family planning program has successfully lowered fertility rates.
• Sustaining fertility reduction requires improved quality and quantity of contraceptive use.
• Increasing the duration of breastfeeding is essential for reaching replacement-level fertility goals.