Poor IE&C is major bar to program acceptance.

Abstract

A recent book by D.J. Bogue, Twenty-five communications obstacles to the success of family planning programs, is briefly discussed. Among the problem areas cited are: 1) concerns about the effects of the various female methods and of vasectomy on health, sexuality, and appearance; 2) rumors; 3) pressure for children; 4) the equation of contraception with promiscuity; 5) lack of awareness of services; 6) insufficient emphasis on spacing rather than terminating childbearing; 7 ) neglect of immediate and intermediate benefits of family planning, including improved relationship between husband and wife, better financial situation, and reduced burden on women; 8) low status of women; and 9) narrow focus of family planning. People should be informed of the support for family planning among those holding similar religious and moral views.