Journal of School of Public Health and

Background and Aim: Rapid growth of Iran's population attracted attention of the authorities after the 1986 national census. This led to population control and family planning programs to be considered as a priority. Appropriate strategies of the family planning program led to a very fast decrease in population growth and fertility indices: and use of contraceptive techniquies rate increased from 49% in 1989 to 73.8% in 2007. This study aimed at reviewing family planning program in Iran (FPPI) during the last four decades and discussing the reasons for its success, as it can be a guide for future efforts aimed at improving other aspects of reproductive health.

Materials and Methods: The method used was systematic reviewing of articles indexed in Medline and University Jihad Scientific Database, reports of the Demographic and Health Project, the Iranian Statistical Center National Censuses, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Education reports on knowledge, attitude and practice.

Results: FPPI initiated officially in 1966 faced with limited success. Following the 1986 national census, population control was announced as a public policy, supported by the leaders. A supportive environment was created by mass media. Establishment of the Departments of Population and FP in the Ministry of Health made possible reorganizing family planning services: expanding coverage of PHC services, including FP services training skilled personnel providing free contraceptives and vasectomy and tubectomy services. Involvement of volunteers and NGOs helped in strengthening community actions. In order to develop personal skills, in addition to face-to-face FP counseling in the health centers, FP education in schools, colleges, workplaces, army and pre-marriage classes was also imparted. Promotion of men's participation in FPPI, by providing male methods of contraception, such as vasectomy or condom use, was also considered. There was also cooperation and support on the part of nongovernmental and international organizations.

Conclusion: Based on the findings, it may be concluded that the principles of health promotion can explain the FPP achievements in Iran. This model can be used in expanding other reproductive health programs in Iran.