Practice of Female Sterilization Among Currently Married Women in West Bengal, India: Trends and Magnitude of Differentials

In India, sterilization is the most common method of modern contraception, and it is used primarily by women. Although important evidence on contraceptive behavior is prevalent in the literature, there is a demand of area-specific research that specifically investigates female sterilization practices and how these behaviors have been influential over the past 5 years. Thus, this study investigates trends and differences in female sterilization use among currently married women in West Bengal, an eastern state of India with complex reproductive health dynamics, using data from both NFHS-4 and NFHS-5 rounds. The analysis delves into trends and differences across various demographic, socioeconomic, and geographical categories. Findings reveal variations in sterilization use based on age, residence, education, religion, social communities, and number of children. Despite sterilization remaining a prevalent method, disparities persist, underscoring the importance of targeted interventions to enhance access to reproductive healthcare services and promote informed decision-making. The study emphasizes the need for policy measures addressing socioeconomic disparities, cultural norms, and healthcare infrastructure to improve reproductive health outcomes in West Bengal.