Return to Fertility after Discontinuation of Modern Contraceptive Methods in Rwanda

Abstract

Introduction: Return to fertility after discontinuing modern contraceptives is a concern for women. The absence of local evidence on this important issue contributes to rumors and myths associating family planning with infertility. This research aims to study the time it took a woman to get pregnant after discontinuing a method in Rwanda. 

Methods: This study uses data collected from Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey 2020. Data cleaning was conducted, and appropriate sample weights were applied. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Cox proportional hazard model. 

Results: Twelve-month pregnancy probability was 94% for women who used barriers and traditional methods, 92% for IUDs, 88% for pills, 83% for implants, and 81% for women who used injections. The age of women and the number of children were associated with the time to return to fertility (HR=0.95, CI: 0.94-95, P<0.0001, and HR=1.15, 95CI: 1.09-1.2, p< 0.0001, respectively). The duration of contraceptive use and body mass index were not associated with the time to return of fertility. 

Conclusion: This research revealed a strong association between the type of contraceptive method and the time until fertility returns.