Method mix of family planning in Iran, and its determinants

Aliyar Ahmadi, Shiraz University
Mahmoud Ghazi-Tabatabaee, University of Tehran
Amir-Houshang Mehryar, Ministry of Science, Research & Technology, Iran
Tavakkol Aghayari Hir, University of Tabriz

Iran is a well known country in terms of demographic transition and its fast fertility decline. Although the distant socio-economic variables influencing fertility are well recognized and studied, use of family planning programs as a proximate determinant needs more investigation in the context of Iran. This study aims at investigating the determinants of method mix of family planning in the country. It is based on Iran’s DHS- type survey conducted in 2000 and makes use of Multinomial Logit Model for estimating the probability of each method’s utilization. With regard to Macro level variables, the study indicates that provincial level of development is a major factor in determining prevalence of different methods. There is a negative correlation between provincial level of development and use of modern methods. Modern methods are mostly prevalent in less developed provinces while the traditional method of withdrawal is most frequently used in more developed provinces. Similarly, the barrier method of condom is mostly used in more developed provinces whereas pill is more frequently used in less developed areas. In terms of micro level analysis, level of education emerges as the most important variable in method choice. Pill and Tubectomy enjoy a higher place among illiterate women. Vasectomy, Norplant and Condom use is positively related to level of education. More educated women are also more likely to use traditional method of withdrawal regardless of their place of residence. Key words: method mix of family planning, traditional methods, modern methods, Iran