Family Planning Needs during the Extended Postpartum Period in North Indian States

Vishal Shastri, Family Health International (FHI)

Extended postpartum period defined as one full year after birth. Pregnancies occur during this period are more likely to have adverse outcomes; therefore it is critical period for addressing unmet need. NorthIndian states have very high levels of fertility with low contraceptive use. Present paper analyses NFHS-III data from UP, MP and Bihar States and compares with one southern state TamilNadu and summarizes key findings related to birth-spacing and postpartum FP. Results suggests women in 3 states have a tremendous unmet need for FP during the first year postpartum—particularly for limiting. Women who use the formal health system are more likely to have access and use FP—creating an opportunity to integrate FP messages with MCH services. Programs need to reach women who are not in contact with the healthcare system during ANC and postpartum. Ensuring access to quality postpartum services is important strategy in reducing maternal and early childhood mortality.