Men’s Awareness, Support and Uptake of Modern Family Planning: A Case Study of Oyo State Nigeria

Abstract

Amidst the availability of Modern Family Planning (MFP), the prevalence of FP is still low in Africa. Involving men is a critical factor for FP, owing to its benefits, decision making, use and non-use. This study considers the view of men on FP and focused on their perception, support and factors responsible for the use/non-use in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design among married men in in Oyo State, Nigeria. A total of 452 were interviewed. Questionnaire developed using Open Data Kit. Stata statistical was used for data analysis at p=0.05. The majority were Muslims (61.7%), with highest level of education being secondary education (58.4%); 40.3% between the ages of 41-50. Awareness was high (98.7%), with radio (77. %) being major sources. Almost all (98.2%, 97.4%, 92.0%) were aware of male condom, injectables and implants; 86.1% expressed supports and accepted its use (82.1%). Reasons for stopping/not supporting included personal choice (50%), side effects (18.9%) and infidelity (5.3%); 19.7% had negative perception, 43.6% negative perceived roles, 31.0% showed low support. Level of education (x2=8.144, p-0.017) and perception; religion and perceived roles (x2=12.089, p-0.002); level of education (x2=7.623, p-0.022) and supports; use and level of supports (x2=62.281, p-0.000) were associated. There was low level awareness, approval for, support and use of MFP. There is a need to develop family and community level strategic SBCC messages to increase awareness, approval, support and acceptance.