Published Paper Details:

Women's agency and social status affected their standing in family planning decision-making. Given the magnitude of the family planning programme in India, there is a need to strengthen the coordination of all its aspects, focusing on planning, programmes, monitoring, training and procurement. Women's intent of using family planning services/methods was influenced by multiple factors such as socio-demographic characteristics. Fear of side-effects of contraception methods, access to information and support, and cultural and religious beliefs hindered the use of modern methods of contraceptive. Undesirable attitudes of service providers influenced underutilisation of family planning services. Ineffective contraceptive choice counselling, particularly for poor section of the community and high-risk groups were reported. While considering inter-pregnancy interval, some of the women opted for induced abortion to terminate unplanned pregnancy however, had meagre acceptance for using modern contraceptive methods. There is a need for greater male participation both as enablers and beneficiaries and also address the sexual and reproductive needs of the youth. It is imperative for the government to ensure the prioritization of family planning in the national development agenda.