Master's Project Title:

Does Religion Act as a Barrier to Contraceptive Use Among Muslim Women in the Twin Cities, MN?

MCH Student:

Sumaiya Mamdani

Date of Defense:

October 7, 2009

Abstract:

Objectives: Islamic populations are both known for their high fertility, persistent pro-natal fertility regimes, and resistance to family planning and contraception. This survey attempts to examine what role Islam plays among families utilizing family planning, along with choices of contraceptive methods.

Methods:  It is essential to look at discussions and decisions about family planning, as it reveals the multiple ways people interpret, adopt, and work within prescribed religious doctrine. A short online survey was conducted to answer the question: Does Religion act as Barrier to Contraceptive Use among Muslim Women in Twin Cities, MN? IRB approval was attained. Twenty-nine married or divorced women between the ages of 18 and 49 participated in the survey.

Results: Results indicated that 86.2% of women (or 25 women) used contraceptives of any form while married, while 4 women or 13.8% avoided birth control while married. Of all the women who responded, 60% indicated that Islam plays a primary or some role in the decision to use contraceptives. Further 50% of women indicated that Islam plays a role in deciding which method to use. Lastly, only 2 women or 6.9% indicated that they believe birth control is forbidden in Islam.

Conclusions:  The results of this study point out that while Islam plays a role in family planning, it is does not act as a barrier to use among the majority of Muslim women in Twin Cities, MN.