Trends in Contraceptive Use and Determinants of Choice in China: 1980-2010

Cuntong Wang, Central University of Finance and Economics, China

Using large-scale data from national statistics and nationally representative sample surveys, the current study aims to assess Chinese trends in contraceptive use, and determinants of choice, from 1980 to 2010 among married couples aged 20-49.The results show:A relatively stable Chinese mode of contraception has been established and maintained since the 1980s. This is characterized by long-term contraceptive use which is still dominant in current China. In addition, China’s total contraceptive prevalence remains at the highest level across the globe from 1980 to2010. Additionally, an individual’s contraceptive choice is jointly influenced by the strength of family planning policies and individual characteristics.