Barriers in the Use of Contraceptives among Married Women of Childbearing Age

Abstract

Background:  Despite early family planning initiatives in Pakistan, high fertility rates and low contraceptive uptake persist. This study explores barriers impeding effective population control among married women of reproductive age.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2023 to September 2024 at PAF Hospital, Islamabad. Using systematic sampling, married women aged 15–45 years were recruited for face-to-face interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with chi-square tests employed to examine associations between contraceptive knowledge, demographic factors, and practices.

Results: Ninety married Muslim women participated, most aged 26–35 years (53.3%) and residing in urban areas (80%). Over two-thirds (74.4%) reported husbands employed in government service. Contraceptive knowledge was high (94.4%): 85 respondents were aware of condoms, 83 of oral pills, and 66 of intrauterine devices (IUDs). At the time of the survey, 70% reported contraceptive use—predominantly condoms (33.3%), followed by withdrawal (15.6%) and oral pills (11.1%). Major barriers included fear of side effects (68.9%) and perceived risk of infections (51.1%). Among knowledgeable respondents, 61% reported usage. Notably, 93.5% of those fearing side effects did not use contraception, while 59.5% of those perceiving benefits as outweighing risks reported usage.

Conclusion: Although awareness of contraception was high, uptake remained constrained by concerns over side effects and continued fertility desires. Targeted counseling and community-based interventions addressing misconceptions may improve contraceptive adoption.