Factors influencing uptake of family planning services among men in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Utilisation of family planning services in Kenya remains quite low hence, the soaring population which has partly hampered achievement of the fifth Millennium Development Goal (MDG) as well as achievement of overall development goals for the entire country. Current reports indicate that male participation improves uptake of maternal healthcare and family planning services among women.

Objective: To determine factors that influence male participation in family planning services in Kenya.

Design: A retrospective study

Setting: Nationally representative survey of Eight provinces in Kenya.

Subjects: Married and single sexually active men.

Results: From the adjusted logistic regression model after controlling for other factors, we found higher education AOR 1.59 (C.I: 0.767-3.299), employment AOR 1.67 (C.I: 1.127-2.496), Media as the source of information AOR 1.75 (C.I: 1.308-2.367), discussion with a health worker AOR 1.71 (C.I: 1.206 – 2.430), number of wives (one wife AOR 0.07 (C.I: 0.007-0.769), No more desire for children AOR 2.83 (C.I: 1.794-4.489) and the total number of children one has (1-4) AOR 2.55 (CI: 1.616 -4.029) as the main factors that influence male participation in family planning services.

Conclusion: In Kenya, programmes intending to have men actively participate in family planning services should focus on addressing multiple factors which influence men’s participation in family planning services.