JOURNAL OF LIAONING TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

MULTITUDINOUS CHILDREN: A SEQUEL FOR INNUMERABLE PROBLEMS

Dr. Alade M.I., Prof. Ogunkorode A.O., Prof. Akpor A.O.

Abstract

Family planning involves spacing pregnancies to achieve the desired number of children through effective birth control methods. Despite campaigns to promote contraceptive use, Nigeria faces rising population issues, including increased numbers of street children, which strain the economy and resources. A significant concern is the health risk to mothers and infants, with more than 60% of births in Nigeria falling into high-risk categories. These high-risk births include those spaced too closely, to mothers who are too young or too old, and to mothers with many previous children, resulting in a higher risk of child mortality before age five. Family planning can significantly reduce these risks by promoting appropriate birth spacing. The importance of having a manageable number of children is emphasized to ensure adequate provision and care. Effective population management policies are necessary to prevent reckless childbearing. Over the past four decades, global efforts to increase family planning access have averted 4.1 million maternal deaths by reducing fertility rates from 6-7 children to 2-3 children per woman in many low-resource countries, except Sub-Saharan Africa, where the average remains five children per woman. Nigeria continues to struggle with low family planning uptake despite its benefits. This seminar paper explores the concept of having many children and its societal impact, highlighting family planning’s role in reducing hunger, poverty, and optimizing maternal and child health

Keywords: Family Planning, Population, Reproductive Age, Contraceptive, Multitudinous