Male Contraception in Senegal: Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of Couples on Vasectomy According to a Survey Carried Out at the Fatick Regional Hospital

Abstract

The use of male contraception in general, more specifically vasectomy, could become a valuable choice in case of high risk for women during pregnancy and/or intolerance to female contraceptive methods. In this study, the main objective was to assess the population’s level of knowledge, attitude, and perception towards vasectomy in a West African country renowned for its Islamic cultural background. Study population and methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study of 100 people selected at the Regional Hospital of Fatick, during 3 months through a direct interview based on a questionnaire. Results: The average age was 40, with extremes ranging from 23 to 63 years. The male sex was predominant (54%) with a sex ratio of 1.17. Male contraception was known by 93% of respondents. Vasectomy was known by only 18%, with 16% of respondents willing to perform it after a clear explanation of the method. There was a significant association between education level and knowledge of vasectomy, with P less than 0.05. Conclusion: Our study showed that vasectomy is little known by the population, but it remains a possible alternative for couples where women’s contraception is forbidden for medical reasons.