Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Contraceptive Use among male Partners of Postpartum Women in SPHMMC, AA, Ethiopia 2023G.C.

Abstract

SUMMARY Background: Men's knowledge and attitudes towards contraceptives for women or their partners are influenced by culturally dictated gender dynamics and adequate understanding of family planning information. In terms of contraceptive uptake and use, male partners play a complex and evolving role, with both positive and negative pathways for influence. Researches have noted that man’s misperceptions about side effects, male dominance in relationships, and physical abuse may result in opposition, whereas adequate information, social support, and shared responsibility may be able to positively influence family planning and contraception use. But data on this topic are outdated or have a predominant HIV prevention focus. In this research, I examine the knowledge and attitude of men in our setup, towards contraceptives and their use. Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of male partners towards women contraceptive methods: to assess their contributions to the practice and usage of contraceptives by postpartum women who gave birth at SPHMMC. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at St. Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College, postpartum follow-up OPD and Maternity ward. A survey method was used to collect data, by questionnaires. Data was collected by the primary investigator, at the site of interview. A non-probability sampling method was used. Specifically, the quota method of sampling was used. 384 men partners of postpartum mothers were included. The data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive analysis was used for computation and statistical analysis, and Chi-squared statistic was used to assess the related factors. Tables and figures are used to present the results. Results On this study 79.1% of the respondent stated that they have heard of contraceptive techniques before this research. Based on this study’s operational definition, 332(86.2%) of respondents have positive attitude towards postpartum contraception. 228(59.2%) have been counseled about postpartum contraception. Half of the respondents (126, 55.3%) stated to have decided on a particular method of contraception at the time of interview. Conclusion In this study partners of postpartum women have good knowledge and attitudes about postpartum contraceptive techniques. However, it's important to address the gap between knowledge and practice. Encouraging open communication between partners about family planning and providing access to resources and education about postpartum contraception can help bridge this gap