Demographic and Socio-economic Factors Affecting Contraceptive Use in Malawi

Abstract

Malawi has one of the highest Contraceptive Prevalence Rates (CPR) in sub-Saharan Africa. However, fertility remains high and fertility decline is slow. This paper uses data from the 2000 and 2004 Demographic and Health Surveys to examine correlates of contraceptive use among currently married women in Malawi. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to establish the relationships between socioeconomic variables and current use of contraception. The results show that the major determinants of contraceptive use are age, respondents' and partners' approval of family planning, family planning discussion with partner, number of living children, work status, education and visit to a health centre. As a policy measure, information, education and communication programmes on family planning should be intensified, particularly in rural areas and targeting men.