Knowledge and attitudes of men towards birth spacing and contraceptive use in rural area in Dakahlia governorate

Men have rarely been involved in either receiving or providing information on sexuality, reproductive health or birth spacing. They have also been ignored or excluded in one way or the other from participating in many family planning programs as family planning is viewed as a women’s affaire.Aim of the work:The present study aims at improve men’s awareness and use of contraceptive methods.Subjects & methods:Two hundred husbands attending family medicine center in rural area in Dakahlia governorate were selected to measure their knowledge and attitudes towards birth spacing and contraceptive use.-The data were collected through the following tools:A questionnaire presented to measure husbands knowledge and attitudes towards birth spacing and contraceptive use, the survey was pilot tested, revised, and then released to assess husband’s knowledge and attitudes about birth spacing and contraceptive use.-The collected data were analyzed using Epi-info program (statistical package for social sciences).Analysis included descriptive statistics, such as frequency tables and inferential statistical analysis in the form of cross tabulations.Abstract:Results & conclusion:-the present study showed a satisfactory level of men’s knowledge and a favorable attitude towards family planning and contraception.-Men’s knowledge about family planning and contraception was significantly affected by their age, education, occupation, income and the age of their wives.-Men’s attitude was also significantly affected by their age, education, occupation, income and the age of their wives.- The majority of studied husbands made the decision about using contraception, helped and discussed with their wives in choosing contraception method.- It is evident that men’s support and participation in family planning to the ultimate success of any reproductive health programs.Recommendation:Effective communication programs use multiple channels to disseminate their messages. These include mass media, interpersonal communication, and community mobilization, to educate men to give women all due rights and involve them in reproductive and contraceptive decision-making