Definition
FPTYPDIA (V304A_04) reports whether diaphragm or spermicides, such as foam or jelly, is considered to be a modern method, a traditional method, or a folkloric method of family planning in a given sample. Some phases combine diaphragm and spermicides in the response and some are separate; see Comparability.
In the DHS in general, modern methods are the Pill, IUD, injections, diaphragm, condom, female sterilization, male sterilization, implants, female condom, foam/jelly, lactational amenorrhea, and emergency contraception. Traditional methods are periodic abstinence (rhythm), withdrawal, and abstinence. Folkloric methods are the category "other" and country-specific methods (such as herbs or amulet), which vary across samples. In some cases, however, there are exceptions to this organization; see Comparability.
Additionally, while FPTYPDIA (V304A_04) and the other "FPTYP" variables report whether a specific method is considered to be modern, traditional, or folkloric method in a given sample, IPUMS-DHS users may be interested in the complementary variable FPTYPNOW (V313), which indicates whether the woman's current contraceptive method is modern, traditional, or folkloric.