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Promoting Responsible Masculinities: The Role of Vasectomies in Family Planning

Guest author: María Paula Martinez, General Director of Family Planning 2030 Latin America and the Caribbean Hub.

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, they live.

Family​ Planning​ 2030 (FP2030) and World Vasectomy Day join forces to highlight the importance of vasectomy and its impact in the Latin American and Caribbean region.

The FP2030 global alliance aims to encourage states to commit to doing more on the family planning agenda. Since 2023, FP2030 LAC Hub has been working to strengthen the ecosystem of family planning, contraception and sexual and reproductive rights in the region through various lines of work, such as alliance and cooperation, advocacy and community participation, equitable access to health services, promotion of sexual education, and more.

Family planning is a fundamental pillar for sustainable development, gender equality, and public health. In this context, vasectomy emerges as a crucial option to include men in the process, promoting equity and co-responsibility in reproductive decisions. Vasectomy, a safe and effective procedure, offers men the opportunity to actively participate in family planning. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vasectomy has an effectiveness rate of over 99%, similar to other permanent contraceptive methods. However, studies show that only 2.2% of men of reproductive age globally have opted for vasectomy. This method is not only a practical solution, but also challenges traditional gender norms by promoting responsible masculinities. Through education campaigns and access to health services, vasectomy can be demystified and more men encouraged to consider this option. FP2030 is proud to join WVD to promote this important cause.

In Latin America and the Caribbean, where unintended pregnancy rates and barriers to family planning remain high, access to vasectomy can mean a transformative change. By working together, FP2030 and World Vasectomy Day are paving the way for greater acceptance and adoption of this method, providing resources and support to local health systems. For example, in Brazil, a study revealed that the vasectomy acceptance rate increased by 30% following a public awareness campaign.

The promotion of responsible masculinities not only benefits couples, but also strengthens communities. Men who make conscious decisions about their reproductive health contribute to more equitable relationships and a fairer distribution of family responsibilities. This comprehensive approach supports FP2030’s goal of ensuring that all people, regardless of gender, have access to quality family planning.

FP2030 and World Vasectomy Day’s commitment to promoting vasectomies and responsible masculinities is a significant step toward inclusive and equitable family planning. We invite everyone to reflect on the importance of this issue and support initiatives that promote co-responsibility in reproductive decisions. Together, we can build a fairer and healthier future for all people. Let’s move forward together towards the International Conference on Family Planning (ICFP)!

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