Conversation and contraception in Nepal: evidence from the 2001 DHS

Devendra P. Shrestha, Tribhuvan University

The role of spousal conversation in contraceptive use dynamics has been well documented. The successful practice of contraception depends upon the spousal conversation regarding fertility desires and contraceptive choices. The frequency of couple's discussion is positively related to contraceptive use in general, method choice and effectiveness in particular. The paper attempts to further widen our understanding on this research issue.Nepal DHS 2001 data are analyzed. Logistic regression analysis has been used to examine the effect of spousal conversation on contraceptive use. The results indicate significant association in contraceptive practices among women with different socio-economic and demographic characteristics. Results show that spousal conversation and husbands' approval of family planning practice, are the significant predicators of contraceptive use. Couples discussing about contraception are more likely to practice than couples that never discusses. It is essential to understand the necessary conditions that could facilitate spousal conversation resulting to the adoption of contraceptive methods.