Myths and Fallacies about Male Contraceptive Methods: A Qualitative Study amongst Married Youth in Squatter Settlement of Karachi, Pakistan

Noureen Nishtar
Neelofar Sami, Aga Khan University
Shaneela Khowaja, Aga Khan University
Aziz Nishtar, Nishtar & Zafar Law Firm
Farid-UL Hasnain, Aga Khan University

In Pakistan Contraceptive Prevalence rate is demisely low (30%) and is half amongst youth. This study was conducted to explore perceptions regarding myths & fallacies related to male contraceptive methods among married youth aged 18-24 years in Karachi, Pakistan. Qualitative exploratory study design was adopted with a total of 8 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted. Themes were classified around two male contraceptive methods: Condoms and vasectomy and there appeared to be general, physical, sexual, psychological, socio-cultural and religious factors leading to these myths and fallacies related to their use. The foremost myth amongst male and female youth was that condoms and vasectomy cause impotency in males. Additionally, condoms were thought to cause infections, backache and headache in males. Some youth of the area think that vasectomy is meant for prisoners only. There are important policy implications like social marketing through peers, mass media, IEC & youth community centers to address these myths in youth’s minds.