Barriers to Use of Condoms among Nigerian Men: Attitude, Cost and Physical Access

Nathan Heard, Harvard University
Adebola A. Adedimeji, Harvard School of Public Health
Tisha Mitsunaga, Harvard University

This study sought to identify barriers to male condom use in Nigeria. Three categories of barriers were examined: attitude, cost, and physical access. Male data from the 2003 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) and service availability data from the 1999 NDHS were analyzed using a logistic regression model. The hypothesis that cost might determine condom use was not supported. Instead, the main barrier in Nigeria appears to be male attitude towards contraception and several widespread misconceptions about condoms. Lack of proximity to pharmacies that offer family planning, the outlet that is by far the most popular among men, also constitutes a barrier to the use of condoms. Ensuring that pharmacies stock condoms could advance the government’s goal of increasing condom use to stem HIV infections. Additionally, social marketing could be further honed to address specific gaps in knowledge and barriers of attitude.