ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE OF VASECTOMY AND ITS PERCEIVED EFFECT ON PATIENTS ATTENDING UROLOGY IN UBTH, BENIN CITY

Abstract

Vasectomies are a safe, cost-effective, permanent, and 99.9% effective way to give men agency over their reproductive capacity and engage equitably in pregnancy prevention. The study aims to assess the knowledge of vasectomy and its effect on patients attending the Family Planning Clinic at Faith Mediplex, Edo State. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. The random sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 171 respondents for the study. The study reveals clear demographic patterns and notable knowledge gaps around vasectomy. The sample shows a substantial portion demonstrated limited knowledge about vasectomy: a sizable minority lacked understanding of the procedure, its purpose, and the involved anatomy, while widespread myths persisted about reversibility, hormonal changes, and sexual function. Yet there are corrective insights: a majority correctly recognize high efficacy in preventing pregnancy and identify the vas deferens as the key organ involved. Cultural, religious, and partner influences emerge as important decision-shaping factors, alongside perceived access barriers to services. More than one-third of the respondents strongly agreed that the advice and recommendation of a healthcare provider, concerns about the potential side effects and risks associated, and the opinion of their partner influence their decision on whether to have a vasectomy (46.8%, 33.3%, and 31.6% respectively). Overall, findings indicate substantial awareness gaps and persistent gendered myths, underscoring the need for targeted education, myth-busting interventions, and improved access to accurate information about vasectomy as a family planning option.

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urn:uuid:d052e561-ddc1-4aac-8df8-e2643fdb3bad