Factors Affecting Contraceptive Choice and Discontinuation among Women in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in increasing contraceptive use over the past 40 years, from 8 percent in 1975 to 61 percent in 2011. During the same time period, total fertility has declined almost to replacement level, at 2.3 births per woman from 6.3 births per woman. Long-acting and permanent methods (LAPMs ) (i.e. implants, IUDs, and sterilization) account for only 13 percent of all contraceptive use, despite the fact that most Bangladeshi women complete childbearing by their mid-to-late twenties. Although LAPMs may better meet their contraceptive needs, women who have completed their families tend to rely on temporary or reversible methods for their remaining reproductive years.

The Evidence Project is undertaking a qualitative study to identify the factors that influence women’s contraceptive choices, assess the reasons for method discontinuation and switching, and examine why women use LAPMs less often than short-acting methods. This information will help program managers and policymakers develop strategies that better meet women’s reproductive needs and ensure their access to a broader range of contraceptive services.