Dynamics of Contraceptive Use in India: Apprehension versus Future Intention among Non-Users and Traditional Method Users

Rajesh Kumar Rai, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)
Sayeed Unisa, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

This study examines the reasons for not using any method of contraception and reasons for not using modern methods of contraception; and factors associated with the future intention to use different types of contraceptives in India and its selected states, namely Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal. Data from the third wave of District Level Household and Facility Survey, 2007-08 were used. Postpartum amenorrhea and breastfeeding practices were reported as the foremost causes for not using any method of contraception, whereas opposition to use, health concerns and fear of side effects were reported to be major hurdles in the way of using modern methods of contraception. Results from multivariate analysis suggest considerable variation in explaining the factors associated with future intention. Promotion of health education addressing the advantages of contraceptive methods and eliminating apprehension about the use of these methods is the need of the hour.