Utilization of Male Contraceptives among Males in Bungoma County, Kenya

Purpose: Kenya has several policies to promote male participation in family planning, but data on male contraceptive use by male respondents is scanty. Available reports indicate that utilization of male contraceptives in Bungoma County to be less than 1%. This has been linked to high maternal deaths in Bungoma County. Limited male contraceptive choices has been cited as a barrier to utilization of current male contraceptives which calls for more research on male respondents to inform utilization, barriers, development and rollout of new male contraceptives. The aim of the study is to determine utilization of male Contraceptives among males in Bungoma County in Kenya. Methodology: A Cross-sectional Analytical study conducted among 395 males aged 20-69 years in Bungoma County in Kenya. Sample size was determined by Fisher et al. formula and multistage sampling technique was employed. Descriptive and inferential analyses were employed with p-value < 0.05 being considered significant. Findings: 80.9% of males are using aform of contraceptive with condom being the most used contraceptive (89.3%). Commodity related issues (X2 =40.570, p < 0.001), service delivery point (X2 = 82.252, p < 0.001), staff gender preference (X2 = 10.013, p = 0.018 were found to be statistically significant barriers to utilization. There was a significant association (X2 = 59.286, p < 0.001) between level of knowledge and utilization. 99% of the males are not aware of any other contraceptive other than condom vasectomy and withdrawal. If a new contraceptive was developed, the majority would prefer a pill when required. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study established a higher utilization of male contraceptives and influencers of utilization than earlier documented. Lack of knowledge by healthcare providers on new contraceptives calls for continuous medical education on the status of contraceptive development. These findings will inform the policy makers on the areas to focus on by leveraging on the existing opportunities to improve utilization of the current and any other contraceptive that is to be developed. It provides an opportunity for more research on male respondents.