Fertility, Contraceptive Use and Family Planning Program Activity in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

This study examined contraceptive prevalence in Iran modern method mix sources of supply unwanted pregnancy fertility and desire for small families. Data were obtained from KAP surveys conducted in 1989 and yearly during 1992-97 among about 10000 rural and 10000 urban women 15-49 years old. A demographic and health type survey is planned for 1999. The Islamic government increased commitment to family planning and small family size in the 1990s. Findings indicate that contraceptive prevalence increased from 37% to 65% during the 1970s to 1992. In 1997 66% of rural women and 77% of urban women were using contraception. The pill was the most popular method in 1992. About 43% of modern method use in urban areas and 64% in rural areas was the pill. 21% of modern method users in urban areas used the IUD. 18% of modern method users in rural areas had tubectomies. Condoms were 17% of modern method use by urban women and 10% by rural women. By 1997 pill use declined; tubectomy use increased. 57% of modern methods were obtained from public services. In 1996 many illiterate women chose tubectomy; a smaller proportion of illiterate men chose vasectomy. About 30% of pill users did not take the pill correctly. High parity pregnancies were more likely to be unwanted. Fertility in 1996 was 2.8 births/woman. Literacy in 1996 was 74% for women over 6 years old. Literacy for rural women was 62%.