Motivations to use a novel hormonal male contraceptive: Perspectives from male contraceptive clinical trial participants

Abstract

Objective

Most existing studies on men’s willingness to use novel hormonal male contraceptives (HMCs) rely on survey data and focus on the hypothetical use of HMCs. The aim of this in-depth, qualitative study was to elicit the perspectives of HMC clinical trial participants – men who have actually used an HMC – to describe their motivations for using HMCs.

Study design

In 2017–18 we conducted 30 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a sample of men who participated in early-stage HMC clinical trials in Los Angeles or Seattle to explore their experiences with and motivations for trialing a HMC. Using thematic analysis, we analyzed deidentified transcripts using deductive and inductive codes, summarizing key themes using a socioecological framework.

Results

Participants averaged 35 years old (range: 22–52) and were ethnically and sociodemographically diverse. Men’s motivations for using an HMC centered on societal-level factors (i.e., concerns regarding ‘overpopulation’ and responsible childbearing), partnership factors (concerns regarding entrapment; desire to share in contraceptive responsibility), and individual-level factors (i.e., contraceptive options that maximized pleasure and intimacy; beliefs in men’s contraceptive and bodily autonomy).

Conclusions

This study provides the first U.S.-based, in-depth qualitative insights from men who have used HMCs. Men’s motivations for participating in HMC clinical trials and wanting to use novel male contraceptives are both numerous and multi-faceted, supporting prevailing survey data on men’s willingness to use them once on the market. These data offer insights on how male contraceptives could be marketed to the general public.

Implications

Men’s motivations vary with respect to participation in hormonal male clinical trials and desire to use HMCs when they become available. All of these motivations – from the broader, societal level, to the individual and partnership level – are critical to assessing the demand for and subsequent marketing of HMCs.