Husbands' involvement in contraceptive use: assessing decision-making and support dynamics

Introduction: Contraceptive use is critical in family planning, health management, and socioeconomic development. However, gender dynamics, education, and economic factors often influence household decision-making and support systems. Understanding the role of husbands in contraceptive use, including their participation in decisions and financial support, is essential for designing more inclusive reproductive health policies. This study examines the involvement of husbands in contraceptive practices among couples. Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted from March 2000 to June 2000 at a purposively selected slum of Dhaka in Shaymoli, Adabar, and Agargaon and some sections of a government colony to evaluate husbands' involvement in contraceptive use, focusing on assessing decision-making and support dynamics. A total of 300 participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data analysis was done on a computer using SPSS. Result: The study revealed that most respondents were between 20 and 30 years old, while husbands were predominantly 35 and 44. A significant proportion of respondents (36%) were illiterate, compared to 25.3% of husbands. The majority (43.3%) had a monthly income between Tk 3,000-3,999. Contraceptive use was high (91.3%), with female methods (76.29%) being more common than male methods (23.71%). Women primarily made contraceptive decisions (81.3%), with limited husband involvement (18.7%). Husbands’ education significantly influenced decision-making, whereas income levels showed no significant correlation. In most cases, husbands provided financial support for travel and contraceptives. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the limited involvement of husbands in contraceptive decision-making, with most decisions made by women independently. Higher male education correlated with greater participation, while economic factors showed no significant effect. Enhancing male engagement and shared responsibility in family planning is essential to achieving more balanced reproductive health practices. Contraception, Decision-making, Gender-Inequality, Heath Education