Magnitude of Current Contraceptive Usage among Males of Reproductive Age, in Asmara, Eritrea 2016

Abstract

Introduction

Contraception is a means of birth control by regimen of one or more actions, devices, sexual practices, or medications followed in order to deliberately prevent or reduce the likelihood of pregnancy or childbirth. Men can participate in birth control by using a male method like condom, withdrawal, periodic abstinence and vasectomy. Objective of this study is to assess the magnitude of current male contraceptive usage among males of reproductive age in Asmara, Eritrea in 2016.

Methodology

A quantitative cross-sectional design was applied. A total of 612 eligible males whose age between 15-59 years and residing in Asmara were included in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to generate a quantitative data. An ethical consent was sought out from the study participants. Significant associated variables were further analyzed using logistic regression analysis

Results

The magnitude of current male contraceptive users are 38.2%. Condom was the most preferred method of male contraceptive (68.7%). The main reason for preferring was less side effects (26.5%). About half (56.2%) of the respondents had a positive attitude towards male contraceptives. The majority (77.6%) had a good knowledge about male contraceptives. A very large proportion (97.2%) of the respondents knew the presence of a male contraceptive in the market and only 8.7% opposed for its marketing.

Conclusion

Magnitude of current contraceptive usage is low. A significant relationship was established among the users with age, educational level, marital status, and having children alive. Majority had a good knowledge and about half had positive attitude towards male contraceptives.

Recommendation

Male centered family planning services are recommended in order male to have rich access for male contraceptive methods.