Exploration of Modern Contraceptive Methods Using Patterns among Late Reproductive Aged Women in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: In light of the increasing population of late reproductive-aged women (aged 35 and above) within the broader demographic of reproductive-aged females, the concern surrounding their contraceptive considerations has escalated to a point of critical importance. This study aims to examine the trends and determinants of modern contraceptive practices among late reproductive-aged women in Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 17,736 women aged 35 and more were included in the analysis, utilizing data from three consecutives Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 2011, 2014, and 2017-18. The outcome variable was the use of modern contraceptive methods (yes or no). The explanatory variables encompassed survey years, individual characteristics of the women, as well as characteristics of their partners and the community. To examine the association of the outcome variable with the explanatory variables, a multilevel logistic regression model was used. Results: Approximately 54% of women aged 35 and older do not utilize modern contraceptive methods, and there have been no significant shifts in their usage observed over the survey years. The probability of using modern contraceptive methods exhibited a notable decline in relation to increasing age, the educational level of women's partners, and their categorization within the richer or richest wealth quintile. Conversely, women with higher education, increased exposure to mass media, and residing in the Dhaka or Rajshahi division displayed an elevated likelihood of embracing modern contraceptive methods. Conclusion: The study highlights the relatively stable adoption of modern contraceptive methods among women aged 35 or older in Bangladesh, despite their increasing representation within the population. This raises concerns about the elevated risk of unintended pregnancies and shorter birth intervals, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address the specific needs and preferences of this demographic