Study on knowledge and practice regarding no scalpel vasectomy (NSV) among male members of eligible couples in a rural community of West Bengal, India

Abstract

Background: No Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) was introduced in India with the aim to increase male participation in family planning methods. But in spite of the best of efforts, it has failed to achieve its goal. The current acceptance of NSV in India has declined from 1 percent (NFHS 3) to 0.3 percent (NFHS 4). This study was done to get an insight regarding knowledge and practice of NSV and elicit the perceived reasons for underutilization of vasectomy in the community.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 340 male members of eligible couples in six randomly selected villages in Singur from September 2017 to February 2018. Each respondent was interviewed using a structured schedule. All ethical issues were addressed. Data entry and analysis was done using SPSS version 16.0.Results: Out of 340 participants, 57.9% have heard of NSV. Around 61% of the participants have heard of the male contraceptives from media. Although 57.8% knew it to be method of permanent male contraception, only 15.7% were aware that NSV does not need hospitalization. The most frequently reported reasons for underutilization of NSV in the community was fear of surgery (51.3%) and loss of earning due to prolonged bed rest (44.2%). Overall, the proportion of male members of the eligible couples who underwent NSV was 0.6%.Conclusions: Promotional activities should focus on bridging the prevailing information gap regarding NSV among the potential clients. The IEC activities including interpersonal communication and group counselling sessions must deal with their apprehensions thereby changing the behaviour of the society.