It was a national-level sample survey to provide information on various demographic and maternal and child health issues in Bangladesh. The primary objectives of the survey were to provide up-to-date information on fertility and childhood mortality levels, nuptial practices, fertility preferences, awareness, approval, and use of family planning methods, breastfeeding practices, nutrition levels, and maternal and child health. This information was intended to assist policymakers and administrators in evaluating and designing programs and strategies for improving health and family planning services in the country. The sample size was 12,946 respondents including 9,335 female and 3,611 male respondents.

The survey was sponsored by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and was implemented under the authority of the NIPORT of the ministry. Macro International Inc. of Calverton, Maryland provided technical assistance to the survey as part of its international Demographic and Health Surveys program, while financial assistance was provided by the USAID, Dhaka.