Contraceptive Choices

Decisions on family planning and the choice of method, whether modern or traditional, may depend on various factors. Despite the long history of family planning programmes and the prevailing HIV/AIDS situation in Zambia, contraceptive prevalence remains low. 'Contraceptive Choices in Zambia' investigates the demand and supply factors that influence women and men s contraceptive practice. Demand factors examined include socio-economic, demographic and socio-cultural factors, while supply factors include access to information and the availability, accessibility and quality of services. Using Demographic and Health Survey data, and information available from focus groups and in-depth interviews, the following key barriers to contraceptive uptake are identified: limited method mix, unavailability of methods,inadequately trained providers and high fertility aspirations. 'Contraceptive Choices in Zambia' aspires to inform policy decisions on family planning and inspire the translation of study findings into effective service provision. This book is further intended to augment existing family planning literature on Zambia and can be used as a resource for education and training.