Demographic significance of sterilization in three Indian states

Female sterilization has become one of the most widely used contraceptive methods in India since the introduction of family planning program. In this paper, an attempt is made to study the demographic significance of sterilization in three Indian states namely, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, and Kerala, using the National Family Health Survey, 1992–1993 (NFHS-I). The timing of sterilization and the impact of sterilization on fertility are discussed in this paper. Results reveal that the proportion of couples who sterilize before age 30 is higher in Andhra Pradesh, while the proportion of couples who accept sterilization within 10 years of marriage is higher in Kerala. Also in Kerala, the number of births averted due to sterilization remained high as compared to the other two states. The study also shows that a further reduction in fertility can be achieved in the state of Andhra Pradesh by increasing the use of temporary contraceptives.