Young Adult Males' Perspectives of Male Hormonal Contraception [9S]

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: There is an interest and willingness among men in the United States to use Male Hormonal Contraception (MHC), however, data is limited among younger men (18 to 35 years old). Our objective is to evaluate the willingness of young males to use MHC and to determine which method (pill, injection, or transdermal gel) is most desirable. METHODS: An IRB-approved survey measuring willingness to use MHC was dispersed to two distinct populations: University of Cincinnati post-graduate programs (UC) and Cincinnati Health Department (CHD) clinics. Results were reported as frequencies in each population and chi-square analyses were performed to compare groups. P-values <.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: Of 162 total survey participants, 45% would use MHC while 30.9% were unsure and 23.5% would not use MHC. Overall, the UC survey population was more likely to be interested in using MHC than the CHD population (P<.05). The majority of both populations were most interested in using the injection form. Cited concerns deterring participants from using MHC were different between these two populations, with UC participants having concern about possible failure of contraceptive method, while CHD participants had concern about potential side effects (P<.001). CONCLUSION: This study suggests that there is a significant interest among young adult males to use various forms of MHC, especially in injection or pill form. Interest in MHC is more common among individuals with an advanced educational background, employed, or in a relationship. With further research and funding, MHC may serve as a significant way to decrease unintended pregnancies in the future.

RISUG® as a male contraceptive: journey from bench to bedside

“…Various studies are coming up engaging men as potential clients of family planning and surveys indicate about young adults being more willing to use male contraceptive methods [74,75]. The perspective also varies by country and demographical backgrounds; a wider acceptability has been reported amongst men with advanced educational background and stable employment [76]. Nevertheless, scientists are pushing ahead and the momentum and buzz in the field is reflecting fresh optimism.…”

Hormonal Male Contraception: Formative Research to Develop and Test Communication Messaging

“…Prior literature ( Glasier, 2010 ; Heinemann et al, 2005 ; Mullin, 2018 ) suggests men exhibit a general willingness to assume contraceptive responsibility, if available, given its proposed effectiveness in pregnancy prevention and increased comfort in having backup protection ( Glasier, 2010 ). Shifts in contraceptive responsibility ( Dismore et al, 2016 ; Lloyd & Waterfield, 2016 ; Sax et al, 2019 ), increased opportunities for reproductive autonomy ( Dismore et al, 2016 ; Walker, 2011 ), and potential distrust of casual female partners ( Glasier et al, 2000 ; Lloyd & Waterfield, 2016 ) have all been cited as reasons for male acceptability of HMC. Preference for male condoms, the inability to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs; Walker, 2011 ), and side effect concerns ( Dismore et al., 2016 ) contribute to HMC resistance.…”