Publication:

Fertility behaviour and contraceptive use in urban slums of district Gorakhpur

Background Number of slums in India has increased significantly over the last decade (2001-11). Slums lack basic amenities and health care facilities. Very little is known about reproductive behaviour and use of family planning methods in slums. The objective of the study was to study the fertility behaviour and contraceptive use among eligible couples residing in slums of Gorakhpur district.

Methods A cross sectional study was carried out between September 2013- August 2014 among 215 eligible couples in slums of Gorakhpur district using a semi-structured questionnaire.

Results Mean age of marriage was 18.2 years, consummation of marriage was 18.9 year and 1st conception was 19.7 year. In age group 20-24 years, about 42% females had at least 2 children. About half of the females in the age group 25-29 years had 3 or more than 3 children. More than three fourth of eligible couples in age group 30- 34 and 35- 39 years had three or more than three children ever born. High sex preference was observed for male child. Couples with sex preference had bigger families. OCP and IUCD were commonly used in couples with age of wife less than 25 year. Use of condom was maximum in women >35 year. Use of emergency contraceptive was maximum in females in the age group 25-35 year. Use of DMPA and permanent sterilisation (Tubectomy) was higher in couples with age of female >25 year. None of the couples reported vasectomy.

Conclusions Family planning needs of young eligible couples in slums needs to be addressed. Early marriage of females and Sex preference is a common practice in slums and needs consistent Social Behaviour Change Communication.