Increasing the Coverage of Male Sterilization (NSV) in India: Lessons from the Experiences of Telangana State, India

Vinodh Thota, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
T V Sekher, International Institute for Population Sciences

Vasectomy is a safe, easy, and affordable procedure; however, it is not commonly used in India as a family planning method. Male sterilization can aid couples in achieving healthier reproductive outcomes and reduce unintended pregnancies. Despite many advantages, according to NFHS-5, a mere 0.3 percent of males avail this method of contraception, whereas the level of female sterilization stands at 36 percent in India. This study aims to provide insights on the factors that influence men to accept male sterilization. The study used structured schedules to conduct interviews among men (403) aged 23-49 in Karimnagar, Warangal, and Hanumakonda, relatively three better-performing districts of Telangana State. The Binary Logistic regression has shown that wife’s level of education and occupation, number of living children, already having sterilized male family member, type of last delivery, motivation, and awareness of NSV are the factors that determine the acceptance of vasectomy. Men already having a sterilized male family member are 3.7 times more likely to accept vasectomy. It is suggested that to popularize vasectomy, it is essential to create awareness and motivate couples about advantages of vasectomy and facilitate an atmosphere where men may learn the importance of their involvement in family planning.

Keywords: Family Planning and Contraception, Inequality, Disadvantage and Discrimination, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Population and Development

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