This research demonstrates that perceptions of religious principles are important, often decisive, factors in whether a couple will use modern methods. The clergy, as interpreters of religious principles, can help assure the public that family planning, including modern method use, is religiously acceptable. Men are often the decision-makers, whether implicitly or explicitly, about family size and contraceptive use. Ways to increase men s support and involvement could be considered. Policies that encourage husband-wife communication could be considered.
Many women assume their husbands want large families without any discussion of the matter.
Couples may find that they can agree on and provide mutual support to achieve their desired family size if they discuss such matters with each other. The suggestions that follow reflect the authors interpretations of the findings, but they are meant to encourage discussion and debate about ways to address the family planning concerns and needs in Jordan rather than to list recommendations definitively. Knowledge Barriers . Rumors and misconceptions about contraceptive methods are common among Jordanians. Educational interventions that focus on specific knowledge of contraceptive methods might discuss the benefits of using contraception, address concerns about the methods, and include instructions on proper use.