Trends, Patterns and Correlates of Contraceptive Use among Kuwaitis, 1984–1999

Objective: To document the changes in trends and patterns of contraceptive use from 1984 to 1999 and analyze the sociodemographic correlates of contraceptive use. Methods: A nationally representative household survey of Kuwaiti women of reproductive age was conducted in 1999 and compared with published data from three earlier national surveys. Results: About 52% of Kuwaiti women were currently using some form of contraception and 79% had used it at some time in their life (ever-use). Three fourths were using a modern method of contraception at the time of the survey. Oral contraceptive pills were the leading method, followed by IUCDs. Oral contraceptive use declined from 79 to 45% in the period 1984–1999. Use of withdrawal increased from 2% in 1987 to 11% in 1999. Multivariate analysis indicated that a higher age and parity, a higher level of education of both spouses, urban residence, and a lower desired fertility were associated with higher contraceptive use. Conclusion: Contraception is generally used for spacing children, with the wife being the main user. There is a continuing need to provide services and accurate information about the various methods of contraception.