Factors Influencing Contraceptive Use Among Women of Reproductive Age in Kenya: Analysis of 2022 KDHS Data

Abstract

Contraceptive use is an important determinant of fertility. This study focused on factors influencing utilization of modern contraceptive methods among women of reproductive age in Kenya. Specifically, it investigated the demographic, socioeconomic, and sociocultural factors influencing contraceptive adoption. Data from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) were used for this study. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were the main methods of data analysis. The results revealed a significant association between all variables and modern contraception. Multivariate analysis showed that, women aged 20-34 were 2.5 times more inclined to use modern contraception. Additionally, those with 1-3 children exhibited a substantial 6.8-fold increase in the likelihood of using contraceptive methods. Educational level and place of residence emerged as significant socioeconomic factors. Higher education was correlated with a noteworthy increase in the adoption of modern contraceptive, and these odds varied across different regions. Religion played a pivotal role, with Muslim and 'other' faiths exhibiting lower modern contraceptive usage compared to Catholicism. Two intervening factors, wealth quintile and desired family size, were identified as significant moderators. Higher wealth quintiles were associated with increased contraceptive adoption, and a positive connection was observed between the desire for more children and contraceptive use. The primary policy implication drawn from this study is the importance of ensuring that more women complete at least secondary-level education. This not only enhances their autonomy in decision-making but also opens up economic opportunities, subsequently improving their access to modern contraceptive methods.