Men's participation in family planning in Kiwonvu Zone, Mulago Parish

Abstract

The study was conducted in Kiwonvu Zone, Mulago Parish to assess men's participation in family planning. The specific objectives of the study included; to find out men’s awareness and knowledge of FP, to assess men’s level of involvement in the utilization of FP and analyse factors influencing men to get involved in FP in Kiwonvu Zone, Mulago Parish. The study utilized a cross sectional design with both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Data was collected using structured questionnaires from 64 men and 10 key informant interviews were also conducted with providers of FP services and local and religious leaders. Quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS). Frequencies and percentages were derived using MS EXCEL. The study revealed that majority of the men 78.1 % discuss FP issues with their spouses concerning the different FP methods to use and why. The issues mainly discussed focus on the kind of FP to be used and the importance of using FP. Most decisions about family planning 39.1% were made by both men and women thereby increasing the utilization of FP. The study further revealed that the most commonly used FP methods used by men are condoms (46.4%) and withdrawal (32.1%). The study further showed that (45.7%) men receive information about FP from the media, (12.8%) through friends (25.5%) from health professionals and (15%) from spouse/partner. The findings show that there are several factors that influence men's participation in FP. These include the levels of knowledge about FP methods, attitudes of men towards FP methods and their availability and affordability to the men. Barriers include; cultural beliefs (26.5%) religious beliefs (20.1%), knowledge gaps about FP methods (38.3%), the negative perceptions towards specific FP methods (13.8%) among others. Based on the findings, there are a number of relevant recommendations which include; the need for sensitizing and raising awareness about the importance of male involvement in FP as this will bridge the information gaps that hinders male involvement and utilization of FP.