Abstract
The uptake of vasectomy in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa is low. In Eswatini, a kingdom with strong patriarchal norms, the use of vasectomy is at 0.3%. This is despite great efforts to introduce vasectomy and involve men in reproductive health. This study explored the views of men about the acceptability of vasectomy and their willingness to adopt vasectomy as a family planning option. Focus group discussions were conducted with adult men recruited from health facilities located in rural, semi urban, and urban areas in two of the regions of Eswatini. A thematic approach was used to analyze the data. The acceptability of and intention to use vasectomy as a family planning option was very low. Cultural beliefs, societal norms, lack of knowledge about the procedure for vasectomy, and misconceptions influenced the acceptability of vasectomy greatly. The participants could not grasp the concept of a family planning method that is as permanent as vasectomy. However, the decisions to accept or reject vasectomy were influenced by their misconceptions and fears about vasectomy and were not based on facts. To address the need to involve men in reproductive health and improve the acceptability and adoption of vasectomy, planning should be conducted with them and informed by their understanding of their needs.
Highlights
Vasectomy is a highly effective and safe contraceptive method for couples who want to stop childbearing
This study explored the views of Eswatini men about vasectomy as a family planning (FP) option
Cultural beliefs and societal norms influenced the acceptability of vasectomy to a greater extent
Summary
Vasectomy is a highly effective and safe contraceptive method for couples who want to stop childbearing. It has no side effects and, compared with female sterilization, is a less risky procedure, provides a quicker recovery period, and is incomparable in cost [1,2]. 2.4% of men around the world use this method [2], as compared to female sterilization (tubal ligation) which stands at 19% of women worldwide [4]. Vasectomy prevalence is 12% in Northern America, 11% in Oceania and Northern Europe, ranges from. Developing countries have a vasectomy prevalence of 2.5%.
Published Version (Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have