The Use of Family Planning Methods (FPMs) in Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

This paper examines the use of family planning methods in Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A
total of 55 respondents were involved in the study. The study used both quantitative and qualitative techniques
in collecting and analysing data. A questionnaire, in-depth interviews and documentary review were used to
gather data. The findings indicated that the modern family planning methods, such as condoms and oral
contraceptives like postinor-2, the morning after pills, injection, and implant, were preferred over the
traditional family planning methods, such as withdrawals, calendar rhythm method and periodic abstinence.
The factors influencing family planning methods were education, access to information, fear and unfounded
ethical beliefs, number of siblings, children as an indicator of one’s high status, prestige, and children
confirming one’s virtue. Generally, the use of family planning methods was determined by socio-economic
status of the users and environmental variables. Therefore, it is recommended that the stakeholders construct
health centres and educate people on good family planning methods.