Ideal Male-Oriented Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Delivery: A Qualitative Study of Men and Healthcare Providers’ Perspective from Nigeria

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The global burden of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) problems has remained a significant challenge to the wellbeing of men and limits the effectiveness of SRH interventions for females. This study explored men and healthcare providers’ perception of ideal male-oriented Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services.METHODS: This was an exploratory qualitative study involving three focus group discussions among men in selected communities and eight interviews among healthcare service providers in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Key Informant Interview (KII) guides were used to collect qualitative data from twenty-six men and eight healthcare service providers, respectively. Participants for the study were selected from three different units of the selected hospital and twelve communities. Data were sorted, transcribed, and analyzed using Atlas ti software. Inductive-deductive thematic analysis was performed.RESULTS: Three main themes emerged from the study: (a) ideal men-oriented SRH service provision within a unit specially made and named after men, (b) 24-hour daily SRH clinic and (c) locating SRH Clinic in the healthcare institutions with outlets in the communities and schools. The participants identified primary needs as SRH organs assessments; screening services; family planning services; and education and counselling on prevention and treatment of male SRH problems.CONCLUSION: Men have SRH service preferences that focused on preventive and therapeutic sexual and reproductive health needs that are desired to be male-oriented, dedicated and provided in health facilities with public outlets.