Modern Methods of Fertility Regulation: When and for Whom Are They Appropriate?

INTRODUCTION In many less developed countries women who desire family planning are reluctant to use temporary methods of fertility regulation. Moreover, those who do opt to use them often do so at the end of their reproductive careers. Among younger women who experiment with modern contraceptive methods, many discontinue their use after a short period of time. Professionals have tended to explain poor demand for contraceptive methods on rumors involving fear of side effects and problems associated with improper use. Often such explanations embrace a victim blaming mentality. This particularly seems to be the case in areas of South Asia where screening and/or follow-up services are poor, if available, and the primary focus of family planning workers is to meet state mandated targets.