Do U.S males receive contraceptive counseling during medical visits? Insights from the National Survey for Family Growth.

OBJECTIVE

In the United States, women disproportionately bear the responsibility of preventing pregnancy. Although vasectomy is safer, less invasive, and more cost-effective than tubal ligation, it remains significantly underutilized. To better understand this disparity, our study examines gender-based differences in contraceptive counseling during medical visits.

STUDY

DESIGN

We examined data from the National Survey for Family Growth, a nationally representative weighted survey capturing data on reproductive health, contraceptive use, and family planning. Between 2017 and 2019, 11,347 respondents (6141 females and 5206 males) aged 15-49 were interviewed. Demographics and responses related to healthcare utilization were compared between males and females.

RESULTS

During medical visits, males were less likely than females to receive contraceptive counseling (OR 0.12, [95% CI 0.11-0.14), STI prevention counseling (OR 0.09, [95% CI 0.06-0.12]), or permanent contraception counseling (OR 0.46, [95% CI 0.23-0.92]). Males without health insurance were less likely than insured males to have received vasectomy counseling (OR 0.29, [95% CI 0.04-0.52]) while a lack of insurance was unrelated to permanent contraception counseling in females.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates gender-based disparities in counseling for reversible contraception, permanent contraception, and STI prevention. Medical providers must improve counseling of male patients for contraceptive options, especially vasectomy, as it remains amongst the safest and most cost-effective forms of contraception.

IMPLICATIONS: This study reveals that men are less likely than women to receive counseling on contraception, including permanent contraception during medical visits. Providers can promote reproductive health equity by engaging both men and women in discussions about contraception and family planning during routine care.