## Contraceptive Prevalence in India — Epidemiological Data **Key Point:** Contraceptive prevalence is a critical indicator of reproductive health and family planning program effectiveness. In India, it is tracked through the National Family Health Survey (NFHS). ### Modern Contraceptive Use in India **High-Yield:** According to NFHS-5 (2019–2021), the prevalence of modern contraceptive methods among married women aged 15–49 years in India is approximately **48–52%**. ### Breakdown by Method (NFHS-5) | Contraceptive Method | Prevalence (%) | |---|---| | Female sterilization (tubectomy) | ~30–35 | | Male sterilization (vasectomy) | ~1–2 | | IUD (Cu-IUD + LNG-IUS) | ~2–3 | | Oral contraceptive pills | ~3–4 | | Barrier methods | ~2–3 | | Other modern methods | ~1–2 | | **Total modern contraceptive prevalence** | **~48–52%** | **Clinical Pearl:** Female sterilization (tubectomy) remains the dominant contraceptive method in India, accounting for approximately 60–65% of all modern contraceptive use. This reflects the preference for permanent methods in the Indian context, particularly after completion of desired family size. **Warning:** Do not confuse modern contraceptive prevalence with total contraceptive prevalence (which includes traditional methods like rhythm method and withdrawal). Total prevalence is higher (~55–60%) but is less reliable for fertility control. **Mnemonic:** NFHS tracks **FPM** — **F**amily **P**lanning **M**ethods prevalence across India's states and union territories. [cite:Park 26e Ch 6]
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