Understanding Contraceptive Preferences Across Generations: Insights from Indonesian Millennials and Zillennials

Purpose: To find out the differences in the use of contraceptive methods in millennials and zillennials. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional comparative design using secondary data from the National Socio-Economic Survey 2012 and 2022. A total of 31,345 women (2012) and 23,942 women (2022) were included. Generations were defined as follows: Millennials (born 1981– 1996) and Zillennials (born 1997– 2012). Descriptive statistics, chi-square and multinomial logistic regression were used to assess differences in contraceptive use between the two generations. Results: Age, residence, education, household expenditure, age at first marriage, number of living children, and internet access were significantly associated with contraceptive preferences. Among Millennials, education and internet access were most associated with SARC use. Among Zillennials, education and fewer living children were most associated with SARC use. Regarding traditional methods, among Millennials, age group and internet access were most associated with use, and among Zillennials, residence and education were most associated with traditional method use. Conclusion: Strengthening communication, information dissemination, and education tailored to the characteristics of the generation is essential to address their specific needs and preferences. Plain Language Summary: This study looked at whether there are differences in contraceptive use between millennials and zillennials. It used data from Indonesia’s National Socio-Economic Survey in 2012 and 2022, analyzing information from over 55,000 women. Age, residence, education, household expenditure, age at first marriage, number of living children, and internet access were all significantly associated with contraceptive choice. Among Millennials, SARCs were most strongly associated with education and internet access, while traditional methods were associated with age and education. Among Zillennials, SARC use was associated with education and fewer living children, whereas traditional methods were associated with residence area and education. Although both generations commonly used injections and pills, the likelihood of using each method varied by generation and sociodemographic factors, highlighting the importance of tailored family planning interventions.