Assessing the Prevalence and Factors Influencing Male Involvement in Family Planning Services in an Urban Ghanaian Community

This study explored factors influencing male engagement in FP in Madina, Ghana, to inform targeted interventions. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Madina, involving 390 married men aged 18-65 with at least one child. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression assessed associations between male involvement in FP and various factors. The study revealed that 34.6% of participants discussed FP with their spouses, with most discussions occurring monthly. Current contraceptive use among participants and their spouses was 28.8%, with injectables and pills being the most common methods. Significant factors influencing male involvement included educational level and spousal communication. Higher education levels were associated with increased involvement (AOR = 0.66, 95% CI [0.517, 0.848], p = 0.001). Men who engaged in FP discussions with their spouses had markedly higher involvement (AOR = 8.23, 95% CI [4.703, 14.411], p < 0.001). However, age, religion, ethnicity, and intention to have more children did not significantly impact male involvement. Occupational status also did not show a significant effect on participation. The findings highlight the crucial role of education and spousal communication in enhancing male involvement in FP. To improve FP outcomes, interventions should focus on increasing educational opportunities and fostering open communication between partners. Addressing these areas could significantly boost male participation in FP programs in Ghana. Additionally, investigating the impact of tailored communication strategies and educational approaches on male involvement could provide further insights and enhance family planning practices.