Doctors Urge Men to Be More Involved in Family Planning Decisions

For decades, the topic of family planning has often been associated with women from birth control pills to hormonal injections and IUDs. Based on the news on pafikutaikab.org however, health experts now emphasize that contraception and reproductive health should not be seen as women’s sole responsibility. Doctors are urging men to take a more active role in family planning decisions, not only to share the responsibility but also to strengthen mutual understanding within relationships.

According to Dr. Farhan Rizky, an obstetrician and reproductive health specialist at RSUP Fatmawati Jakarta, the perception that family planning is a “woman’s issue” has persisted for far too long. “Family planning is a shared commitment,” he said. “When men participate, couples are more likely to make informed decisions, avoid unplanned pregnancies, and maintain a healthier relationship overall.”

Men’s involvement in family planning can take many forms — from discussing contraceptive options with partners to using male-centered methods such as condoms or vasectomy. While condoms are the most accessible and reversible method, vasectomy remains one of the most effective long-term solutions for those who have completed their families. Despite its proven safety, many men still hesitate to consider vasectomy due to myths about reduced masculinity or sexual performance.

“Medical evidence clearly shows that vasectomy does not affect libido, strength, or masculinity,” Dr. Farhan explained. “It’s a simple procedure with minimal risks and a quick recovery period. The challenge lies more in cultural perceptions than medical concerns.”

In Indonesia and many other countries, cultural norms still place the burden of contraception on women. Surveys show that male participation in family planning remains below 10 percent, while women continue to rely heavily on hormonal methods that may cause side effects. Public health experts argue that increasing male involvement could ease that burden and improve reproductive health outcomes.

Beyond contraception, men also play an important emotional and psychological role. When partners make decisions together, it reduces tension and improves communication. Dr. Farhan added that men who actively participate tend to be more supportive during pregnancy and child-rearing, creating healthier families in the long term.

Government programs are beginning to reflect this shift. The National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN) has launched several initiatives to encourage male involvement through education and counseling sessions. These programs aim to break stereotypes and inform men about available methods, emphasizing shared responsibility rather than blame or avoidance.

Health experts also highlight the need for better education. Comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education — both in schools and community programs — can help young men understand that family planning is not just about preventing pregnancy, but about mutual respect, planning for the future, and protecting overall health.

“Modern family planning is not a women’s issue; it’s a partnership,” Dr. Farhan concluded. “When men are involved, families become stronger, healthier, and more balanced.”

In the end, doctors agree that the future of family planning depends on changing attitudes — not just policies. By encouraging men to step up and participate, society takes an important step toward equality and shared responsibility in reproductive health.

Source: https://pafikutaikab.org/