Impact of family planning on women"s lives : toward a conceptual framework and research agenda

In this paper, the authors reverse the equation and explore how FP affects various aspects of women"s lives. The authors examine the positive and negative consequences of FP both on women who use contraceptives services and on women employed in FP programs. They examine the effect of FP on six areas of women"s lives: (1) personal autonomy and self-esteem; (2) physical and psychological health; (3) educational attainment; (4) employment and economic resources; (5) family relationships; (6) and public standing. The authors also explore the impact of FP on the children of contraceptive users and family planning workers, as well as on men, other women, and the greater society. An outline for future research is proposed. The authors conclude that collection and analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data will be helpful in designing programs and policies that best match women"s FP needs. (Author abstract, modified)