Unpacking Traditional Contraceptive Practices in Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Examination of Nationally Representative Large-Scale Data

Background: The continued use of traditional contraceptive methods in Bangladesh contributes significantly to the country’s rising prevalence of contraceptives. Traditional methods such as withdrawal, rhythm, and traditional herbs lack efficacy and reliability, leading to high rates of unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions. This poses a significant challenge to the country’s family planning programs, which aim to promote effective and modern contraceptive methods. To better understand the prevalence and determinants of traditional contraceptive practices in Bangladesh, this study investigates their use at national and subnational levels. Method: We used first eight round (1993–94 to 2017–18) of standard BDHS (Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey) data to calculate level and trend in the use of traditional contraceptive and to calculate descriptive statistics, and to examine the determinants of using traditional methods of contraception, multinomial logistic regression was applied using BDHS 2017–18 data. Results: The results show that almost 10% of currently married women in Bangladesh still use traditional methods of contraception. The prevalence of traditional methods is highest in the country’s southwestern region, i.e., Khulna (12.4%) and Barisal (10.8%) divisions. Women’s age (for 35+ women, RR = 1.53, CI = 1.25–1.88), number of living children (for women having 2 children, RR = 5.49, CI = 4.18–7.22), wealth condition (for poor women, RR = 1.19, CI = 1.02–1.39), and working status (for working women, RR = 1.35, CI = 1.21–1.51) have an overarching influence on their choice of traditional contraceptive methods. Younger women, those with fewer children, poorer households, and those with less or no education were more likely to use traditional methods. Conclusion: These findings imply that family planning programs in Bangladesh should overcome socioeconomic barriers to reduce traditional contraceptive usage and promote modern contraceptive methods. Furthermore, the country’s family planning programs should prioritize vulnerable groups such as younger women and those with lower education and income levels. In conclusion, this study highlights the need for continued efforts to reduce the prevalence of traditional contraceptive methods in Bangladesh. Family planning programs that prioritize modern methods and address socioeconomic barriers can significantly improve access to effective contraceptives and contribute to the overall health and well-being of women and families in Bangladesh.