Publication:

A study on fertility pattern and its proximate determinants among eligible couples in an urban slum area, Hyderabad

Background Fertility is not totally dependent on the biology of the couple, but there are several other factors that affect the fertility of a couple, particularly in India with the varied cultural and religious practices across the country. India was the first country to initiate an organized family planning program and even after 63years of program we have not achieved the desired results. Studies show that women in towns or in urban slums are more likely to marry early and have children. So, this study was planned in an urban slum area, to understand the fertility trend and factors affecting it.

Methods A community based cross section study was conducted in an urban slum area among eligible couples. House to house visit was done and 174 eligible females were interviewed. Data was analysed using epi-info software.

Results In the present study it was found that 40.2% (n=70) of females were married before the legal age of marriage i.e. 18years. Teenage pregnancy was found in 38.9% of the females. It was seen that socio-economic condition and female literacy had an impact on the age at marriage, and fertility pattern. Number of children was more for poor and lower middle class family, Muslims and couples living in joint families.

Conclusions Early marriage and teenage pregnancies are the major problem. Female literacy and employment can give them the power to bargain for issues like marriage and fertility.