THE percentage of married women in Central Visayas utilizing modern family planning methods has increased from 29 percent in 1993 to 45 percent in 2022, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Thursday, July 13, 2023.
The PSA reported that these figures are based on the results of the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) conducted in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development or USAID.
The NDHS offers insights into various aspects of family planning, violence against women, fertility rates, women’s empowerment, and healthcare access in Central Visayas. The survey results were presented to local media during an event at the Golden Prince Hotel and Suites in Cebu City on Thursday.
According to Maria Lourdes Garillos, fertility and family planning population program officer, the significant increase in the use of modern family planning methods among married women in Central Visayas is a reflection of the growing adoption of modern contraceptive methods in the region.
Modern methods
Modern methods include female sterilization, male sterilization, pills, IUDs (intrauterine devices), injectables, condoms, mucus/billings/ovulation methods, standard days method, and lactational amenorrhea method.
Traditional methods include the calendar method, rhythm or periodic abstinence, and withdrawal method.
The survey also emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to promote family planning education and services to sexually active unmarried women, as their contraceptive usage remains significantly lower compared to married women.
Garillos stressed the importance of reaching out to this population and addressing any barriers they may face in accessing and utilizing contraception.
She further noted that the unmet need for family planning in Central Visayas has decreased from 22 percent in 1993 to 13 percent in 2022, indicating improved access to contraception.
These findings underscore the ongoing importance of enhancing family planning services and information, she added.
Domestic violence
As for domestic violence against women, the cases remain a concerning issue in Central Visayas, according to Leslie Marie Zuasula, senior statistical specialist of PSA-Women’s Empowerment and Domestic Violence.
According to the survey, 19 percent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical, sexual or emotional violence from their current or most recent husband or intimate partner.
Fourteen percent of women in the same age group have experienced some form of violence within the past 12 months.
Healthcare services
The survey also examined various aspects of women’s empowerment, such as earnings, decision-making, and negotiation of sexual relations.
The PSA stated that policymakers can utilize this information to develop comprehensive programs promoting gender equality and safeguarding women’s rights.
The survey also revealed the challenges faced by women aged 15-49 when accessing healthcare services.
Understanding these difficulties is crucial for developing strategies to improve healthcare access for women and ensure timely medical attention, the PSA said.
The survey’s findings will serve as a valuable foundation for policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders to design programs that address women’s specific needs and enhance their overall well-being in Central Visayas, according to the PSA. (NWSSU INTERN IAN CHRISTOPHER OSTULANO)