To use or not to use: Exploring factors influencing the uptake of modern contraceptives in urban informal settlements of Mumbai

The research paper "To Use or Not to Use: Exploring Factors Influencing the Uptake of Modern Contraceptives in Urban Informal Settlements of Mumbai" explores the determinants of contraceptive use among women in informal settlements of Mumbai. Conducted by SNEHA (Society for Nutrition, Education and Health Action), the study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining a cross-sectional survey of 1,407 married women of reproductive age and 22 in-depth interviews with both users and non-users of modern contraceptives.

The findings highlight that 76% of the surveyed women were using modern contraceptives, and key factors influencing their use included age, education, number of children, socioeconomic status, and exposure to family planning programs. Many women lacked contraceptive awareness before marriage, leading to early and unplanned pregnancies, which either resulted in continuing unwanted pregnancies or opting for unsafe abortions. Contraceptive use was generally considered only after achieving the desired family size, rather than for birth spacing. Fear of side effects, reliance on traditional methods, spousal awareness and support, counseling by health workers, and social norms significantly influenced decision-making around contraception.

The study recommends strengthening adolescent sexual and reproductive health programs, increasing awareness of reproductive rights, promoting formal education for women, and engaging community role models to encourage contraceptive uptake. The research emphasizes that improving spousal communication and addressing misconceptions about modern contraceptives is essential for effective family planning. Additionally, it suggests enhancing counseling services, follow-ups for women facing side effects, and ensuring better accessibility to contraceptive options. The findings underline the need for a rights-based approach to family planning, focusing on empowering women with information and choices to make informed reproductive health decisions.