| Authors | RG Milne R E Wright |
| Abstract | This study examines the nature and extent of contraceptive use in Malta and determines what factors affected the shift from traditional to modern methods. Data were obtained from the 1993 Survey of Family Planning in Malta of 98 general medical practitioners and up to 15 clients per practitioner and a similar 1971 survey. The total fertility rate in Malta declined from 2.25 in 1967 to 2.00 in 1985. Changes occurred such that the influence of the Church declined, formal education increased, legislation supported family planning, and income increased. Both Malta surveys indicated a proportion who did not attempt to space or limit births and some who relied on more than one method. During 1971-93, choice of contraceptive method changed from traditional methods to oral pills and condoms. Government family planning clinics were set up in 1981 and provided information that included natural methods. Diaphragms were provided free of charge. Abortion was, and still is, illegal. Sterilization is also illegal; male sterilization is more accessible. The probability of a woman using some form of contraception is modeled. Findings suggest that age has little impact. Women with 2-3 children and more highly educated women had higher probabilities of using contraception. Older married women and better educated women had a higher probability of use and use of the rhythm method. Family size was unrelated to use of the rhythm method. Age and marital duration were unrelated to use of coitus interruptus. Better educated women were unlikely to rely on coitus interruptus. Condom use was unrelated to age, education, family size, or marriage duration. Younger women were more likely to use the pill and more effective methods of contraception. Effective contraceptive use was related to better female education, larger family size, and longer marriage duration. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | Eur J Popul |
| Volume | 13(2) |
| Pages | 147 - 167 |
| Date | |
| Link to journal | |
| Key words | fertility, family planning, contraception, catholic, spacing births, condoms |