Knowledge and Acceptance of ‘Vasectomy as a Method of Contraception’ amongst Literate Married Men in Ekpoma, Nigeria

Abstract

Women have been shown to accept surgical intervention methods of contraception than men. Despite the fact that vasectomy is safer, simpler and effective, it is underutilized and relatively unknown in Nigeria. This study therefore, investigates the knowledge and acceptance of ‘vasectomy as a male contraceptive method in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria. The study population comprises of 250 respondents targeting literate married men which were randomly selected. A suitable constructed questionnaire which has been pre-tested was the tool for data collection. Overall, 23.2% have adequate knowledge of vasectomy. On acceptance of vasectomy as a male method of contraception, 1.6% agree and another 5.2% agree conditionally. Furthermore, no respondent with Islamic beliefs agrees to any degree. Result shows poor knowledge of vasectomy among the studied population and this may be the cause of low acceptance. Conclusively, this low acceptance will persist due to misconceptions, incomplete and incorrect information about vasectomy.

Key words: Vasectomy, Knowledge, Acceptance, Contraception; Married men.