Barriers and incentives in the uptake of family planning services: Evidence from the Universal Access to Quality Contraception Project

The UAQ (Universal Access to Quality Contraception) project implemented by Population Services International in Agra, Uttar Pradesh focused on increasing access to modern contraceptive methods through innovative financing strategies, particularly for marginalized populations. A survey conducted in June 2022 included 1,240 married women and found that the main factors influencing a woman's desire to have another child are the number of her existing children and the absence of sons, indicating a strong preference for male children. The most significant factor affecting women's willingness to participate in the program was experiencing financial difficulties in accessing contraceptive methods. The research showed that husbands' views are a critical factor in family planning decisions, meaning programs should reach out to both women and their husbands. Increasing awareness and access to information about family planning services is essential.