Male needs and responsibilities in family planning and reproductive health.

Recent studies from developing countries have found that a high percentage of men know at least one method of fertility regulation. With regard to specific methods, many know about condoms, but few have heard of vasectomy. These studies have also shown that about 75% of men approve of the use of family planning. Research, however, must determine whether these men approve of family planning use only in general or specifically for themselves. Current levels of condom use remain low. The main obstacle to the use of family planning methods by men is the lack of choice in male methods. Options for men include the condom, vasectomy, periodic abstinence, and withdrawal. More technologies are needed in order to achieve a better balance between male and female reproductive risks and responsibilities. These should include male contraceptive methods as well as female-controlled methods to prevent sexually transmitted disease. The efficiency and coverage of programs increase when men participate. Finally, national family planning programs should be encouraged to conduct research about involving men in family planning and reproductive health programs.