Demand for and use of modern contraception among young women aged 15–24 years in Malawi: evidence from the Malawi demographic health survey, 2015–2016

By focusing on mDFPS rather than overall contraceptive prevalence, this study advances understanding of reproductive autonomy among young Malawian women. The findings suggest that educational attainment, empowerment, and gender-sensitive service delivery are more decisive than economic access alone. Efforts to improve mDFPS should therefore address social norms, marital dynamics, and health system barriers to youth-friendly contraceptive services.