Knowledge regarding the development and acceptability of male
contraceptives among Jordanian pharmacists: A Mixed sequential Method
Abstract
Rationale, aims, and objectives Community pharmacists have a crucial
role in providing comprehensive patient education regarding
contraception methods. This study aims to investigate Jordanian
pharmacists’ knowledge and perception towards male OCPs. Methods A
mixed-explanatory sequential method was divided into two phases. The
first was a self-administered electronic survey to community
pharmacists/trainees in Jordan. The second phase was carried out through
online semi-structured in-depth interviews targeting the maximum
variation purposive sample of community pharmacists. Results A total of
158 (response rate 98%) questionnaires were included in the analysis.
The majority of the participants were female (n=118, 74.2%). In terms
of knowledge, only 25% of participants acknowledged the presence of
male OCPs and almost half were uncertain about the mechanism of action
and the possible uses. The findings of the interviews confirmed the
relatively negative perception towards males OCPs. As, the identified
barriers to male OCPs were cultural norms, side effects, and poor
compliance. Conclusion There is a negative perception towards male OCPs,
as the majority of pharmacists believe such products will not be
successful in Jordan. Once these pills are approved for their
effectiveness and safety, men may need further education and
encouragement to take an active role in family planning along with their
partners.