Son Preference, Modern Contraception, and Fertility Intention in the Context of Polygyny in Pakistan: Evidence From Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018

Abstract

Introduction: The research explores the association between son preference, utilization of modern contraception, and fertility intention among polygynous families in Pakistan. Method: Logistic regression, margins plot, and propensity score matching techniques were implied for the analysis, using demographic and health surveys 2017–2018. Results: The results reveal higher odds for using modern contraception (0.51) and lower odds for demanding more children (2.56) among women having only sons as compared to women having only daughters with (0.4) and (6.7) odds for the same factors. Propensity score matching results show that after controlling for all demographic factors women having only boys are 6% more likely to use contraception and 20% less demanding more children than women having only girls. This association is stronger, especially when couples have less than six children. Conclusion: The research shows evidence of son preference and higher fertility among women belonging to polygynous families in Pakistan. Policy programs should pay attention to women's empowerment, education, and economic rights.