Constraints on Effective Family Planning in Urban Sudan

Abstract

This article is an investigation of the constraints on contraceptive use in Sudan, from the perspective of current nonusers, never-users, and discontinuers, based on data obtained from 305 married women aged 15-49 through a field survey undertaken in Khartoum city. Results indicate that lack of knowledge of contraceptive methods accounts for the low level of contraceptive prevalence, 15 percent overall, found in this study. The overwhelming majority of nonusers (85 percent) either perceive contraception as a risk to their health and fertility, regard it as unacceptable, or do not know which method to choose. A comprehensive and rigorous family planning information program is crucial to address existing constraints on the use of contraceptives in urban Sudan.