Description

FPTYPABS (V304A_12) reports whether abstinence is considered to be a modern method, a traditional method, or a folkloric method of family planning in a given sample.

In the DHS in general, modern methods are the Pill, IUD, injections, diaphragm, condom, female sterilization, male sterilization, implants, female condom, foam/jelly, lactational amenorrhea, and emergency contraception. Traditional methods are periodic abstinence (rhythm), withdrawal, and abstinence. Folkloric methods are the category "other" and country-specific methods (such as herbs or amulet), which vary across samples. In some cases, however, there are exceptions to this organization; see Comparability.

Additionally, while FPTYPABS and the other "FPTYP" variables report whether a specific method is considered to be modern, traditional, or folkloric method in a given sample, IPUMS-DHS users may be interested in the complementary variable FPTYPNOW (V313), which indicates whether the woman's current contraceptive method is modern, traditional, or folkloric.

Comparability

FPTYPABS (V304A_12) is largely comparable across samples. All samples conform to the standard organization and code abstinence as a traditional method.

In addition, some samples did not specifically ask about abstinence, but respondents could volunteer this method when asked about "any other methods."

Comparability - Standard DHS

FPTYPABS (V304A_12) is included in the standard DHS questionnaire for Phase II forward, though many countries did not specifically refer to abstinence on their survey forms.

Universe