Factors influencing voluntary surgical contraception choice in a developing country: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE

To identify sociodemographic, psychological, and relational factors associated with the acceptance of VSC among adults of reproductive age in the Medina community, San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 240 randomly selected adults using structured interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable binary logistic regression in Python to identify significant predictors of VSC acceptance. Independent variables included age, education, number of children, previous reproductive experiences, and relationship dynamics.

RESULTS

Older age, higher education, urban residence, and being in a stable union were positively associated with VSC acceptance, with prior contemplation emerging as the strongest predictor (p < .001). Partner infidelity (p = .026) and abortion history (p = .031) were negatively associated. The logistic regression model demonstrated good discrimination (AUC = 0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

In this community sample, older age, higher education, and prior reflection on VSC increased acceptance, with prior contemplation as the strongest predictor. Conversely, abortion history and partner infidelity reduced acceptance. The number of children and physician recommendation showed less consistent effects. Findings underscore the need for reproductive health education, relationship-focused counseling, and policies supporting informed, autonomous contraceptive decisions.