A Review of Contraceptive Prevalence Rates in Afghanistan

Abstract

Background and Objective: Family planning programs and the use of contraceptives are among the priorities of maternal and child health. Adequate information about the prevalence of family planning programs and contraceptive use in Afghanistan is not readily available. This review attempts to provide an appropriate perspective on the prevalence rates of contraceptive use based on existing data and suggests practical measures to improve the prevalence of contraceptive usage.
 Research Method: In this review, data from Google Scholar, PubMed, the Ministry of Public Health website, the World Health Organization, and the National Family Planning Program were utilized. Seven articles published between 2001 and 2023 were selected and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
 Findings: A narrative summary of the results of the selected articles is presented in this paper. According to studies conducted in the country, statistics on the prevalence of contraceptive use show significant differences in comparison to demographic structures. The lowest figure reported in these studies is 10.4%. The utilization of contraceptives is reported as follows: oral contraceptives 38.5%, condoms 30.3%, medroxyprogesterone 17.0%, intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCD) 15.6%. Overall, the prevalence rate of contraceptive use in the entire country reaches 15.4%.
 Conclusion: In Afghanistan, due to numerous barriers, the use of contraceptives and the gap between pregnancies have not been promoted. Conversely, according to the conservative beliefs of the illiterate segments of society, the use of contraceptives is considered contrary to their religious beliefs and even in conflict with divine instructions. Therefore, it is imperative for policymakers to develop comprehensive and inclusive programs in this regard and seek assistance from religious leaders to align the community with these programs. Ultimately, the entire society needs to be mobilized.