Preventing Unintended Pregnancy Later in the Reproductive Life Course: A Qualitative Study of Low-income Men

• In Event: 2366 - Considering Men and Partners

Abstract

Unintended pregnancy is a common experience for men. Few studies have assessed men’s
motivations for and involvement in preventing pregnancy beyond adolescence. Between
December 2015 and August 2016, we conducted in-depth interviews with 26 low-income,
sexually active men, aged 25-55 years, who did not want more children and were not using
permanent contraception. Interviews explored men’s pregnancy intentions in the context of their
relationships and contraceptive use, and we analyzed the interview transcripts using content
analysis. Participants cited financial constraints as their primary reason for not wanting more children, but some indicated they might change their mind if circumstances improved.
Approximately half reported incongruities between their partners’ childbearing plans and their
own, and many of these men relied on less effective contraceptive methods. Men’s minimal
involvement in contraceptive discussions also aligned with their limited contraceptive
knowledge. Addressing men’s unmet reproductive health needs later in life may reduce
unintended pregnancy.

Authors

• Anthony David Campbell, University of Alabama-Birmingham

• Amy Sedlis, University of Alabama-Birmingham

• Julie L. Locher, University of Alabama-Birmingham

• David Turok, University of Utah

• Kari White, University of Alabama-Birmingham