Family Planning and Maternal Child Health Outcomes: A Global Analysis Using WHO Data

Abstract

Maternal and child mortality remain critical global health challenges, with potential associations to family planning access requiring systematic investigation. This study examined the relationship between access to modern family planning methods and maternal and child health outcomes across WHO member states to inform evidence-based policy development. A quantitative cross-sectional analysis was conducted using WHO Global Health Observatory data from 101 member states. Key indicators included maternal mortality ratio (deaths per 100,000 live births), infant mortality rate (deaths per 1,000 live births), family planning access (percentage of reproductive-age women with modern contraceptive needs met), and births attended by skilled health personnel. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation coefficients and ordinary least squares regression modeling. Significant negative correlations were observed between family planning access and both maternal mortality (r = -0.490, p < 0.001) and infant mortality (r = -0.495, p < 0.001). Regression analyses revealed that each percentage-point increase in family planning access was associated with 5.848 fewer maternal deaths per 100,000 live births and 0.445 fewer infant deaths per 1,000 live births. Geographical analysis demonstrated pronounced disparities, with Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia exhibiting the highest mortality rates and lowest family planning access. The findings provided satisfactory evidence for the protective association between modern family planning access and reduced maternal and child mortality. These results supported increased investment in comprehensive reproductive health programs, particularly in regions with the greatest need, as a cost-effective strategy for improving global health outcomes and achieving sustainable development goals.