International efforts are essential to improve reproductive health indicators. Despite advances, there is a lack of studies on contextual factors associated with modern contraceptive coverage. Our study investigated the association between country-level factors (gender inequality index and health expenditure) with demand for family planning satisfied by modern contraceptive methods (DFPSm) in 14 Latin American countries. We included data from each country's most recent (post-2010) Demographic and Health Survey or Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. The results showed a direct association between the DFPSm and the number of children, wealth index, and woman’s education. We also identified that women from countries with the highest gender inequality index were less likely to have DFPSm than those living in countries with the lowest tertile. Despite the lack of data for several contextual factors, this study pointed out directions to country-level investigations related to modern contraceptive coverage and individual factors usually known in this area, such as wealth and education. Furthermore, planning macro-level actions and policies could increase coverage and reduce inequalities on DFPSm.

You can access the full paper at: The Lancet Regional Health - Americas