Masculinity as a Determinant of Men’s Vasectomy Utilization

• In Event: Medical Sociology Section Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 3. Reproductive Health

Abstract

Objectives: To examine how men’s characteristics and traditional masculine attitudes are associated with vasectomy utilization in the United States. Methods: Using 2022-2023 National Survey of Family Growth data on men aged 30–49 (n=2,278), we conducted descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression to assess how sociodemographic characteristics and traditional masculine attitudes are associated with undergoing vasectomy. Results: Approximately 1 in 9 men (11.9%) reported undergoing vasectomy. Men who agreed that men have greater sexual needs than women were more likely to report having ever had a vasectomy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.86; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.24, 2.80). Other masculine attitudes were not significantly associated with vasectomy utilization. Conclusions: Gender beliefs are an important and overlooked component of male contraceptive behavior. Men may view vasectomies as a means to maintain sexual continuity by reducing reliance on female‑controlled contraception, suggesting opportunities to reframe vasectomy utilization within public health messaging.

Authors

• Giuseppina Valle Holway, University of Tampa

• J. E. Sumerau, University of Tampa

• Nik M. Lampe, University of South Florida