Abstract

Objective: To analyze trends of contraceptive usage among the population of Mirpur District.
Methodology: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Mirpur District, AJK, Pakistan, from December 2024 to January 2025. Inclusion criteria involved couples with female partners aged 15-49, while exclusions included those recently divorced or absent partners. Data were collected from the District Health Office and the District Population Welfare Office. Statistical analysis used SPSS 25, employing t-tests and ANOVA to compare contraceptive methods and trends within the population.
Results: The average number of eligible couples seeking contraception annually was 40,907±4,309. Most eligible couples (73-80%) used temporary contraception methods. 93-97% chose modern contraceptives over traditional methods (2.5-6%). Among contraception users, 47.8% preferred condoms, followed by intrauterine contraceptive devices (11.3%), injectables (7.3%), oral contraceptive pills (7.0%), and implants (0.49%). Surgical methods were chosen by 20.6% of users. Overall, 74.07% used temporary methods, while 20.6% opted for permanent methods. Short-acting methods were preferred by 62.2% of users, compared to 11.8% for long-acting methods.
Conclusion: A strong preference for modern contraceptive methods was seen among eligible couples.

Key words: Contraceptives, family planning, Community health services.