Challenging Gender Norms: Male Physicians' Perspectives on Family Planning in Rural Islamabad

Gender Norms & Male Role in Family Planning

Abstract

Objective: To explore male physicians' perceptions of how family planning (FP) training, supportive supervision, and access to educational materials impact their knowledge, confidence, and ability to provide FP services in rural areas of Islamabad, Pakistan, where FP is traditionally considered a female domain.

Methodology: This qualitative study involved 12 in-depth interviews with male family physicians practicing in rural communities of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). The interviews explored their experiences and perceptions of engaging in FP service provision, a field predominantly led by female healthcare providers due to cultural norms and gendered divisions in healthcare roles. Interviews were transcribed, categorized, and thoroughly analyzed. Participants were informed about the study's objectives, procedures, and confidentiality measures to ensure voluntary participation.

Results: The findings revealed significant gender-based barriers to male physicians' involvement in FP services. Many reported that their medical education placed minimal emphasis on FP, reinforcing the perception that it falls outside their professional scope. Cultural norms further restricted their engagement, as FP counseling and provision were widely regarded as responsibilities of female healthcare workers. However, FP training, supportive supervision, and access to educational materials enabled male physicians to develop essential skills, increasing their confidence in counseling and service delivery. Participants noted a rise in client numbers and referrals, attributing this shift to improved competence and community acceptance. They also emphasized the need for stronger pharmacy linkages and accessible informational materials to enhance service provision.

Conclusion: In Pakistan, gender inequality in healthcare limits male physicians’ participation in FP, reinforcing traditional gender roles and restricting access to comprehensive reproductive health services. Providing male physicians with structured FP training, counseling tools, and institutional support can help challenge these barriers, fostering their role as key contributors to expanding FP access in rural communities.

Keywords: Qualitative study, In-depth interviews, male family physicians, family planning service provision, Islamabad.