Factors influencing the practice of modern family planning methods among married women in Ethiopia: evidence from the2005 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Ethiopia is characterized by high fertility rate even when compared with many Sub- Saharan African
countries. The practice of modern family planning (FP) methods is also low. Thus, exploring factors that determine the
practice of modern FP methods is vital in order to come up with strategies that alleviate the consequences of unmet need for
FP.
Objective: The objective of this study was to examine and determine factors that predict the practice of modern FP among
married women of reproductive age group in Ethiopia and illustrate aspects of data limitations and efforts on how to apply
methods in providing estimations about selected determinants of contraceptive use.
Method: The 2005 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) was the source of data. The survey had collected
reproductive health related data on 9066 married women. Univariate analysis was employed to identify the association
between the independent explanatory variables and the practice of modern FP methods; and multivariate logistic regression
analysis was employed in predicting which factors determined contraceptive practice.
Results: Univariate analysis of the independent explanatory variables including age of women, place of residence, number of
living children, education and wealth index were found to be statistically significantly associated with the practice of modern
FP methods. Multivariate logistic regression analysis has shown that place of residence, education level and wealth index to
be potential predictors of the practice of modern FP methods.
Conclusion: Differences in fertility level and the practice of modern FP methods reflect differences in socio-economic status
and place of residence (Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health, 2012; 6(1): 4-13).
Key words: family planning, modern methods, married women, practices, Ethiopia