Modern contraceptive use among women in need of family planning in India: an analysis of the inequalities related to the mix of methods used

Abstract Objective To evaluate the type of contraceptives used by women in need family planning India and inequalities associated with that use according to women's age, education, wealth, subnational region residence empowerment level. Methods Using data from Indian National Family Health Survey-4 (2015–2016), we evaluated proportion partnered aged 15–49 years demand for satisfied (DFPS) modern contraceptive methods. We also explored share each contraception [short- (e.g., condom, pill) long-acting (i.e., IUD) reversible permanent methods] related inequalities. Results The majority (71.8%; 95% CI 71.4–72.2) were using a method, most (76.1%) form female sterilization. Condom pill second third frequently methods (11.8% 8.5%, respectively); only 3.2% reported IUD. There was nearly linear exchange short-acting as aged. Women poorest wealth quintile had DFPS at least 10 percentage points lower than other women. observed wide geographic variation contraceptives, ranging 23.6% (95% 22.1–25.2) Manipur 93.6% 92.8–94.3) Andhra Pradesh. more accepting attitudes towards domestic violence levels social independence higher but reliance on Among sterilized women, 43.2% 42.7–43.7) before age 25, 61.5% 61.0–62.1) received monetary compensation sterilization, 20.8% 20.3–21.3) not informed sterilization prevented future pregnancies. Conclusion policy should prioritize women-centered care, making widely available promoted.