LATINO MEN’S ATTITUDES ON NOVEL MALE CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS

Abstract

Objectives

Unintended pregnancies and non-use of contraception are disproportionately represented among Latino populations. While novel male contraceptives (NMCs) can fill a gap in contraceptive need, patriarchal norms may prevent uptake among Latino men.

Methods

We conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with heterosexually active, reproductive-aged (18–50), English-speaking Latino men in Los Angeles, CA in 2017. Demographics and reproductive histories were collected. Interviewees were asked about experiences with general contraception, attitudes toward and willingness to use NMCs, with focus on sociocultural barriers. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed.

Results

Of 19 participants (mean age, 29), 74% had a high school degree or less, 63% identified as Christian/Catholic, 32% reported an unintended pregnancy, and 68% wanted more children. Nearly all (89.5%) respondents expressed that men should use NMCs, more than half (68.4%) agreed or strongly agreed that they would use NMCs themselves. The majority expressed concerns about NMC use falling into three themes: 1) machismo negatively influencing family, friends’, and personal attitudes about participating in traditionally feminine roles; 2) religion’s effect of censoring discussions of sex, leading to lack of comfort with contraception use in general; and 3) intergenerational involvement in family planning affecting contraceptive autonomy. An additional theme was that these concerns could be mitigated by catering to their desires for more male-based reproductive control and shared reproductive responsibility.

Conclusions

Even if they are open to using NMCs themselves, Latino men may still be deterred by sociocultural factors. Framing NMCs as a man’s responsibility may be a strategy for overcoming machismo.