Understanding Barriers, Prevalence and Socioeconomic Determinants of Modern Contraceptives Use in Pakistan: A Health Belief Model Perspective on Access and Adoption

Abstract

Background: Adoption of modern contraceptive methods is critical for improving women’s health, reducing maternal mortality, and promoting gender empowerment. Beyond reproductive health, modern contraception contributes to broader public health goals, including lowering maternal deaths. The Health Belief Model (HBM) provides a theoretical lens to examine contraceptive behavior, offering insight into how sociodemographic factors shape acceptance and use.

Methodology:  This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017–18, using the individual recode file for currently married women aged 15–49 years. The study focused on the use of modern contraceptive methods and assessed variations across sociodemographic profiles.

Results: Significant associations were found between sociodemographic variables and modern contraceptive use. Women aged 20–24 were more than twice as likely to use modern contraception compared to those aged 15–19 (OR = 2.15; 95% CI: 1.451–3.186), with likelihood increasing steadily with age. The highest odds were observed among women aged 40–44 (OR = 6.57; 95% CI: 4.475–9.636). Regional disparities were marked, with substantially lower usage in Baluchistan. Wealth status showed a positive correlation, with the richest women exhibiting the highest likelihood of use.

Conclusion: Age, region, wealth, and education significantly influence modern contraceptive adoption in Pakistan. Targeted strategies addressing regional disparities and socioeconomic barriers may enhance uptake and advance reproductive health outcomes.