The Use of Family Planning Methods (FPMs) in Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

This paper examines the use of family planning methods in Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Atotal of 55 respondents were involved in the study. The study used both quantitative and qualitative techniquesin collecting and analysing data. A questionnaire, in-depth interviews and documentary review were used togather data. The findings indicated that the modern family planning methods, such as condoms and oralcontraceptives like postinor-2, the morning after pills, injection, and implant, were preferred over thetraditional family planning methods, such as withdrawals, calendar rhythm method and periodic abstinence.The factors influencing family planning methods were education, access to information, fear and unfoundedethical beliefs, number of siblings, children as an indicator of one’s high status, prestige, and childrenconfirming one’s virtue. Generally, the use of family planning methods was determined by socio-economicstatus of the users and environmental variables. Therefore, it is recommended that the stakeholders constructhealth centres and educate people on good family planning methods.