Year: 2025 | Month: December | Volume: 12 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 120-131
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20251213
Contraceptives and Male Involvement in Karnataka State: Evidence from NFHS-5 Data
Dr. H. R. Channakki1, Dr. Siddappa Mali2
1Field Investigator, JSS Institute of Economic Research & Population Research Centre, Vidyagiri Dharwad-580004
2Research Fellow-1 JSS Institute of Economic Research & Population Research Centre, Vidyagiri Dharwad-580004
Corresponding Author: Dr. H. R. Channakki
ABSTRACT
Male involvement in family planning remains a critical but underexplored dimension of reproductive health in India. Despite national policies emphasizing shared responsibility, the uptake of male contraceptive methods continues to be minimal. Understanding regional variations and socio-demographic determinants of male participation can guide evidence-based interventions. This study examines the patterns and determinants of contraceptive use among men in Karnataka, with a particular focus on male involvement, regional disparities, and associated socio-demographic factors, using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21). The study included 2,860 men aged 15–54 years. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed to assess contraceptive awareness and use across socio-demographic variables such as age, residence, education, religion, caste, and wealth index. While 99% of men were aware of at least one family planning method, only 52.1% reported current use of any contraceptive method, with female sterilization dominating (42.7%). Male methods, including condoms (6.2%) and vasectomy (0.3%), remained extremely low. Contraceptive use was significantly associated with education, wealth status, and place of residence. District-level analysis revealed higher male involvement in southern districts like Udupi and Dakshina Kannada compared to northern districts such as Kalaburagi and Yadgir. Despite high awareness, male participation in contraceptive practice in Karnataka remains limited, reflecting entrenched gender norms and programmatic focus on female methods. Strengthening male-focused family planning interventions, promoting vasectomy acceptance, and addressing socio-cultural barriers are crucial for achieving equitable reproductive health outcomes in the state.
Keywords: Male involvement, family planning, contraceptive use, NFHS-5, Karnataka.
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