Are Latin American and Caribbean men irresponsible with regard to family planning?
PIP: The viewpoint expressed in this article by the executive director of family planning in Guatemala is that Latin American men are interested in family planning. The “machismo” of the past is declining rapidly. Reference is made to studies since the 1970s that show that men are open to family planning and will permit their wives to use contraceptives. Men also, if properly informed and if their fears are dealt with, would accept vasectomy or other male methods. In fact, over 40 million Latin American men may be using condoms, and another 15 million practice periodic abstinence. The experiences of APROFAM in Guatemala have shown that males will accept vasectomy. The APROFAM program provides for presentations made to men in factories and in social groups. Announcements are made during football games. The program was successful in part because men’s fears about the quality of services were removed. When services were provided in private by dedicated personnel, the acceptance of vasecto
