Attitudes toward male fertility control: results of a multinational survey on four continents.
BACKGROUND
Following extensive research activity to develop an effective agent to control male fertility, such a product may be available for use within approximately 5 years. However, little is known concerning contraceptive knowledge, desires and attitudes of men in different countries, and their acceptance of male fertility control (MFC).


METHODS
A survey of >9000 males aged 18-50 years was performed in nine countries on four continents in 2002. The objective was to compare, on a cross-cultural basis, the knowledge, attitudes and acceptability of MFC among men and assess their willingness to use such a method.


RESULTS
Between 50 and 83% of the male respondents currently use contraceptive methods, and 55-81.5% reported that both partners participate in selecting the method of contraception employed. Overall acceptance of hormonal MFC was high (>55%), with 28.5-71.4% of survey participants of various nationalities expressing the willingness to use such a method.


CONCLUSIONS
While MFC appears to be well accepted overall, the willingness to use this type of contraception varies widely between differing population groups. The specific characteristics and profile of any MFC product will have to be carefully evaluated to accurately assess its acceptance, both by men and their female partners.
Heinemann
Klaas
K
Center for Epidemiology & Health Research Berlin, Berlin, Germany. klaas@zeg-berlin.de
Saad
Farid
F
Wiesemes
Martin
M
White
Steven
S
Heinemann
Lothar
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003267:Contraception / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D003625:Data Collection; D005298:Fertility; D014943:Global Health; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D017060:Patient Satisfaction