Does Voluntary Family Planning Contribute to Food Security? Evidence from Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aims to explore the effects of voluntary family planning (FP) utilization on food security in selected districts of Ethiopia. Quantitative research methods were used to conduct a community-based study among a sample of 737 women of reproductive age. The data were analyzed using a hierarchical logistic regression constructed in three models. The findings showed 579 (78.2%) were using FP at the time of the survey. According to the household-level food insecurity access scale, 55.2% of households experienced food insecurity. The likelihood of food security was lower by 64% for women who used FP for less than 21 months (AOR = 0.64: 95%CI: 0.42–0.99) in comparison to mothers who used FP for more than 21 months. Households having positive adaptive behaviors were three times more likely (AOR = 3.60: 95%CI 2.07–6.26) to have food security in comparison to those not having positive adaptive behaviors. This study also revealed that almost half of the mothers (AOR: 0.51: 95%CI: 0.33–0.80) who reported being influenced by other family members to use FP had food security, in comparison to their counterparts. Age, duration of FP use, positive adaptive behaviors, and influence by significant others were found to be independent predictors of food security in the study areas. Culturally sensitive strategies need to be considered to expand awareness and dispel misconceptions that lead to hesitancy around FP utilization. Design strategies should take into account households’ resilience in adaptive skills during shocks, natural disasters, or pandemics which will be invaluable for food security.

Family Planning Programs and Food Security in Nigeria: A Quantitative Approach

“…In concert with the literature, this study affirms the importance of addressing cultural norms, gender inequality, and misconceptions surrounding family planning methods to enhance access (Starbird et al, 2016). The findings of this study resonate with studies such as those by Bremner (2012) and Assefa et al (2023), which emphasized the potential of family planning programs to enhance food security by reducing fertility rates and optimizing resource utilization. Furthermore, the finding aligns with the observations by Bidogeza et al (2015) and Speidel and Grossman (2011), underlining how family planning aids in population management, thereby reducing the strain on agricultural resources and positively influencing food security.…”

“…Research by Cleland et al (2006) emphasizes the positive impact of effective family planning in curbing population growth rates, thereby relieving pressure on food resources. Additionally, studies by Bremner (2012) and Assefa et al (2023) emphasize the potential of family planning initiatives to enhance food security by reducing fertility rates and optimizing resource utilization. However, there exist differing perspectives and gaps in understanding the relationship between family planning and food security.…”

Ketahanan Pangan di Kabupaten Tasikmalaya: Peran Perempuan Melalui Kesetaraan Gender

“…Ketahanan pangan dapat mengurangi angka kesakitan dan kekurangan nutrisi (Assefa et al, 2023;Diamond-Smith et al, 2022;Sheira et al, 2021), studi yang dilakukan pada perempuan dengan pendapatan rendah di Arab Saudi menunjukkan bahwa perempuan dengan pendapatan yang relatif rendah akan memiliki kesehatan mental dan fisik yang buruk (Hanbazaza & Mumena, 2022). Selain itu, menurut sebuah penelitian di California, potensi yang sangat besar untuk mengalami kerawanan pangan adalah perempuan hamil dengan tingkat pendapatan rendah (Laraia et al, 2022), dan rentan terhadap masalah kesehatan yang serius (Cooper et al, 2022).…”