Reproductive Behaviour and Determinants of Fertility Among Men in a Rural Nigerian Community

Although both men and women make important contributions to the production of children, demographic studies of fertility and family planning have focused on women. The assumption of women’s primacy in fertility and contraceptive use has led to a general downplaying and often neglect of men’s roles in studies of fertility and family planning. While conception necessarily requires two participants, demographic studies of family planning, and especially fertility, historically focused solely on women. Discussions on fertility behaviour have focused exclusively on the behaviour of females, and often target women for change while disregarding the role of the males.

A cross sectional survey was carried out in Aghalokpe community, Okpe local government area in Delta State, Nigeria. Study participants were selected using a multi stage sampling technique. A total of 150 men were surveyed using a structured, pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire over a two week period. Data entry and analysis were carried out using SPSS 16.0.

The age range of those interviewed was 18–79 years of age, with 72% being within the age bracket of 15 – 45 years. Of those interviewed, majority (68.67%) had a higher education (secondary and tertiary). Many were aware of family planning and showed a willingness to allow their spouse utilise a family planning method. Of the methods known, the male condom was the most frequently used.

Though the majority of the respondents were educated, aware of family planning, willing to allow their spouse use a family planning method and aware of  methods of contraception; this did not translate into actual use of any family planning method. This showed that it is necessary to formulate educational programs to enlighten and educate the men folk, and to carry out more research in this area.