Vasectomy: A Survey of Knowledge, Perception and Acceptance among Resident Doctors in Nigeria.

Abstract

Introduction: Vasectomy is one of the few fertility control methods which enable men to take personal responsibility for contraception. It is regarded as a form of permanent sterilization. Discuss around the subject of family planning has hitherto focused more on female contraception, could this be due to poor knowledge and perception or bias amongst the health practitioners who are in a position to advise clients? Methods: A cross-sectional study. Results: There were 218 respondents; 169 males (77.5%) and 49 females (22.5%). Majority, 204 (93.6%) knows vasectomy is a form of permanent contraception. Ninety three (42.7%) said it is 100% effective, 85(39.0%) said no, while 40 (18.3%) are not sure. Concerning absolute guarantee of achieving pregnancy postreversal; Yes-14(6.4%), No-74(33.9%), 130(59.6%) - Not sure. Perception-wise, 34 (15.6%) and 18 (8.3%) respondents believe it decreases sexual drive and erection respectively, 32 (14.7%) says it can reduce testicular size. Majority, 139 (63.8%) agree it is safer, easier, cost effective and convenient than BTL. However, only 87 (39.9%) would recommend it to patients, 42 (19.3%) would consider it done for themselves or recommend for a spouse. There was significant association between knowledge and acceptance rate (p<0.001). Conclusion: There is some level of knowledge on vasectomy among doctors, however there are still misconceptions. Also, the acceptance and willingness to recommend to clients is poor. There is need for strategies to correct the misconceptions so as to increase the utilization of vasectomy.