O-15: A Qualitative Approach to Understand the Motivators of Reproduction in Couples of Reproductive Age

Background: There have been considerable changes in childbearing decision-making in Iran over the last 30 years. These changes have affected the understanding and predicting of fertility behavior changes by reproductive health policy makers and program planners. This study was conducted to explore the motivators of reproduction and fertility in couples of reproductive age. Materials and Methods: In this qualitative research in-depth interviews were conducted with 30 participants including 19 fertile women, three parents, three husbands and five midwives and health care providers selected purposively in urban health centers, homes and workplaces in Mashhad, Iran, 2011. Data analysis was carried out using MAXqda software based on conventional content analysis approach through giving analytical codes and identification of categories. Study rigor was confirmed via prolonged engagement, and member check. Results: Results of data analysis demonstrated five major categories about motivators of couples’ reproductive intentions including bio-drives, affective, spiritual, sociocultural and economic stimulus. Conclusion: For those who are interested in reproductive behavioral changes, these findings significantly improve knowing of couples’ motivators of reproduction beyond that of demographic variables alone and promote the interventions in the field of population fertility.