Family Planning Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Male and Female Garment Factory Workers in Alexandria,...

Most evidence on factory workers' family planning (FP) needs has primarily focused on female workers. This study examines knowledge, attitudes, and practices of male and female garment factory workers in Alexandria, Egypt, and identifies factors associated with the use of modern contraception among these two groups. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with married male and female workers (406 and 393, respectively) in 14 factories whose owners agreed to participate in the study, whereas the sample of workers was composed of those whose supervisors approved of their participation in the interview. Bivariate analysis was used to measure differences in FP knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Factors associated with workers' (or their spouse's) use of modern contraceptives were uncovered through separate logistic regression models. Although female workers could list more modern contraceptives than their male counterparts, female workers expressed more concerns and misconceptions about FP. The reported use of modern contraceptives was higher among male workers (or their spouses) than female workers. Factors predictive of modern contraceptive use among men were the number of children, the respondent's age, more positive attitudes, and knowledge of more FP methods, whereas among women, the only significant factor was having more children. The study highlights the need for gender-responsive interventions to address the distinctive FP needs of male and female factory workers, on-site provision of FP information and services in factory settings, and broader interventions to address inequitable gender norms.