Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Family Planning Among Males at Ketu South Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana

Abstract

Background: Family planning (FP) is an important component of reproductive health and contributes to reducing maternal and child morbidity and mortality. Although male involvement in FP is increasingly encouraged, participation remains limited by sociocultural, religious and gender-related barriers. In Ghana, FP programmes have traditionally focused on women, leaving knowledge gaps and misconceptions among men. In Ketu South Municipality, rising teenage pregnancy, fertility concerns and HIV prevalence make male involvement an important public health issue. Aim: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices of family planning among males in Ketu South Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 368 men selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire administered via Kobo Collect in January 2026. Data were analysed with STATA version 17 using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Awareness of FP was high (85.6%), but this did not fully translate into adequate knowledge or favourable attitudes. Only 54.9% of respondents had a positive attitude towards FP, while about 62% reported ever using an FP method. Sociodemographic factors were not significantly associated with knowledge. Tertiary education [AOR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.12–0.83] and having five or more children [AOR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.08–0.72] were associated with reduced odds of negative attitudes. FP use was significantly associated with age, tertiary education, self-employment, Islamic affiliation, higher parity and attitude towards FP. Conclusion: Male awareness of FP was high, but comprehensive knowledge and positive attitudes remained limited. Education, religion, parity and attitude influenced FP practices. Malecentred interventions addressing misconceptions, sociocultural barriers and couple communication are needed to improve male participation in FP in Ketu South Municipality.