Factors that determine prevalence of use of contraceptive methods for men.

Globally, men have not shared equally with women the responsibility for fertility regulation. While family planning efforts have been directed almost exclusively toward women, the lack of male involvement may also reflect the limited options available to men. Current methods for men are either coitus-dependent, such as the condom or withdrawal, or permanent, such as vasectomy. The 20-year history of social science research on male contraceptive methods is examined here in terms of the human and method factors related to the acceptability of hypothetical methods and the prevalence of use of existing methods. New male methods, particularly if reversible, may alter men's willingness to accept or share responsibility for the control of fertility. Research opportunities in the areas of gender, decision-making, communication, health education, and service delivery will be enhanced when methods for women and men are comparable.