Institute for Development Studies, University of Nairobi

Using survey data relating to clients entering the Kenyan family planning program in May, June and July of 1970, drop—out schedules or profiles of clients are established. From these it is apparent that the behaviour of different groups of clients is markedly different; Pill users practice contraception for very much less time than IUD users and those clients genuinely entering for the first time for fewer months than those who had previously practiced contraception through the program. Though this data pertains only to a finite period after which the drop-out is incomplete, the drop out schedules were 'smoothed' and 'extrapolated' this procedure is felt to be most legitimate for Pill users who comprise 80% of acceptors. From these extended drop-out profiles the contribution to recently adopted family planning targets of new entrants in the period 1974-8, and of "clients 'inherited’ from the past is estimated. The targets appear to be optimistic.