Journal of Biosocial Science

Table of Contents - 1989 - Volume 21, Supplement S11 (Dynamics of Contraceptive Use)  

Research Article

Contraceptive method choice in the Philippines, 1973–83

Zelda Zablana1, Minja Kim Choea2, James A. Palmorea2, Tauseef Ahmeda2, Adelamar Alcantaraa2 and Kathryn Kosta3

a1 Population Institute, University of the Philippines

a2 East-West Population Institute, East-West Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

a3 Office of Population Research, Princeton University, New Jersey, USA

Summary

Contraceptive use and method mix were analysed using Philippines national survey data of 1973, 1978, and 1983. The analyses suggest that the reported decline in contraceptive prevalence between 1978 and 1983 was due to under-reporting of use in 1973 and 1983. The shifts in contraceptive method mix were also partly from under-reporting of rhythm and other methods in 1973 and 1983. Nevertheless, the determinants of method choice were similar in all three sets of data. Filipino couples were making rational choices in terms of their contraceptive goals, access, evaluation, and competence. Modifications in the directions and magnitude of the relationships in determining method choice also occurred, partly reflecting the increased use of sterilization by older, higher parity women.