Structural correlates of modern contraceptive use among Ethiopian women

ABSTRACTWe examined structural determinants of modern contraceptive use among Ethiopian women from the 2011 Ethiopia's Demographic and Health Survey. We selected a representative sample of 7490 non-pregnant and sexually active women between 15 and 49 years of age. Multivariate logistic regressions were fitted and effects of relevant demographic variables controlled. Only one-in-three women were current users of modern contraceptives. Modern contraceptive use enabling and inhibiting (barrier) environments were significant predictors of use. Exposure to family planning information regardless of the delivery method significantly associated with improved use. Women who visited a health clinic in the last 12 months increased their odds of using modern contraceptives by 54%. Distance and transportation constraints were identified as major barriers.