Understanding Socio-Economic and Demographic Factors Influencing Acceptance of Male Sterilization: A Comparative Study in India

Shubhi Yadav, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Usha Ram, IIPS

Male sterilization is a safe, cost-effective, and permanent method of family planning, yet it is under-utilized in India. This study compares the socio-economic and demographic factors influencing the acceptance of male sterilization using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). A case-control design is employed, focusing on married women aged 15-49 whose husbands have undergone sterilization. Cases come from 36 districts with male sterilization rates above 2%, while controls are from districts with zero male sterilization, ensuring geographic consistency. The study analyses 23,306 cases and 68,705 controls. Results show that 0.3% of women in India reported their husbands were sterilized, with the highest rate of 18.4% in Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh. Rural areas, Scheduled Tribes, male-headed households, and economically disadvantaged groups are more likely to accept male sterilization. Socio-economic indicators, such as joint decision-making, property ownership, and employment, are higher among those accepting male sterilization. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to promote male sterilization in diverse socio-economic contexts, alongside efforts to empower women in decision-making processes.

Keywords: Family Planning and Contraception, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

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