Trends in Contraception among Postpartum Women in Africa: An Analysis of DHS Calendar Data

Soumya Alva, Macro International Inc.
Leanne Dougherty, JSI Research and Training Institute

Retrospective information on contraceptive use from the two most recent Demographic and Health Surveys in Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda and Uganda are analyzed to examine trends in the contraceptive uptake and method-switching use among women in the extended postpartum period ranging from childbirth to 12 months. The effects of family planning programs and policy in these countries on this group of women are examined. Emphasis is given to specific sub-populations such as those belonging to the poorest socioeconomic groups or younger age-groups, so that family planning programs may be targeted to those in greater need. This research will help frame policies to target the delivery of family planning services more effectively to this group, possibly through integration with maternal and child health services to prevent unintended pregnancy, particularly with short birth intervals. Furthermore, targeting this group also has consequences for reducing the lifetime risk of maternal mortality by preventing their exposure to pregnancy.