Assessment of a Post Partum Family Planning (PPFP) Intervention in Selected Areas of Bangladesh

Assessment of a Post Partum Family Planning (PPFP) Intervention in Selected Areas of Bangladesh
Abstract: This brief assesses a study performed on postpartum family planning (PPFP) in selected regions of Bangladesh. This brief is based on the full report, Assessment of a Postpartum Family Planning (PPFP) Intervention in Selected Areas of Bangladesh.

Closely-spaced pregnancies increase the risk of poor maternal and child health outcomes. In Bangladesh, 11% of non-first births occur within 24 months of the previous birth, according to the 2017–2018 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS). The total fertility rate (TFR) in Bangladesh is 2.3 births per woman, which is 0.6 higher than the desired rate of 1.7. Additionally, 10% of married women have an unmet need for family planning (FP). PPFP plays a critical role in preventing unintended and closely-spaced pregnancies during the first year after childbirth by offering FP counseling and services.

With the recent rise in antenatal care (ANC) coverage and facility deliveries in Bangladesh, there is a significant opportunity to provide PPFP services through both public and private health facilities. 1,3 Approximately two-thirds of facility deliveries occur in private health facilities, while one-third take place in public facilities, mainly under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Nearly 90% of women receive ANC from these facilities, presenting an opportunity to integrate FP counseling and services widely.

This study aimed to achieve three primary objectives:

  • To measure the effect of strengthened and systematic PPFP counseling during ANC visits at health facilities and/or offering FP methods during facility- based delivery on the acceptance of FP methods during the PP period.

  • To understand women’s perspectives on receiving counseling on PPFP during ANC visits at facilities and/or during facility delivery, and their decision-making process regarding the use of FP methods during the PP period.

  • To examine healthcare providers’ view of PPFP service delivery, including the overall service delivery system.

Shortname: FS-24-711
Author(s): Data for Impact
Year: 2024
Language: English
Region(s): BANGLADESH