Knowledge and perception of vasectomy among resident doctors at 6 teaching hospitals in Nigeria: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

[Accepted Research Article]

Background: Vasectomy is a form of fertility control, an elective surgical procedure performed to achieve male sterilization and pregnancy prevention. It is a procedure often performed by urologists as a day case. Though there are many options to prevent pregnancy, these options are limited in males and many at times, it is assumed that family planning is an exclusive responsibility of the females. Could this be due to poor knowledge and perception or bias amongst the health practitioners who are in a position to advice clients?

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted amongst Resident Doctors in Nigeria

Results: There were 218 respondents; 169 males (77.5%) and 49 females (22.5%), M:F was 3.4:1. The age range was 26-51 years, (mean 32.85 SD = 9.5). Majority 101 (46.3%) were from the department of surgery. Majority, 204 (93.6%) knew vasectomy is a form of permanent contraception and 213 (97.7%) have heard about vasectomy. The overall knowledge was good in 140 (64.2%) respondents; more in those in the department of surgery. Majority, 123 (56.4%) had the positive perception towards vasectomy, with females having three times less odd of having negative perception). The overall acceptability rate was poor, and only about 40% would recommend it for patients.

Conclusions: There is some level of knowledge on vasectomy among doctors, however there are still misconceptions. Also, the acceptance and willingness to recommend (vasectomy) to clients is low. There is need for strategies to correct the misconceptions so as to increase the utilization of vasectomy.