Determinants of unmet need for family planning among women of reproductive age in developing countries
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33992/jik.v14i2.5200Keywords:
Unmet need family planning, women of reproductive age, determinants, developing countries, family planningAbstract
Unmet need for family planning remains a major reproductive health challenge in developing countries, contributing to unintended pregnancies and adverse maternal and child health outcomes. This review aimed to identify and synthesize determinants of unmet need for family planning among women of reproductive age in developing countries. A literature review was conducted using articles retrieved from the PubMed database published between 2022 and 2026. Eligible studies were original, freely accessible, full-text articles investigating determinants of unmet need for family planning among women of reproductive age in developing countries. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using a narrative synthesis approach. The review identified several determinants consistently associated with unmet need, including low educational attainment, poor socioeconomic status, younger age, high parity, rural residence, limited access to family planning services, inadequate reproductive health information, and insufficient partner support. Community characteristics and geographical disparities also influenced the occurrence of unmet need. Unmet need for family planning is shaped by multiple interacting individual, socioeconomic, family, and health service factors. Comprehensive strategies focusing on reproductive health education, equitable access to quality family planning services, women's empowerment, and partner involvement are essential to reduce unmet need in developing countries.
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