This document summarizes a qualitative research study about male family planning methods in Timor-Leste. The study aims to provide new evidence to inform policy and programmatic decisions through in-depth interviews with health care providers and participatory group discussions with women and men in communities. The methodology includes body mapping exercises during group discussions to explore knowledge and attitudes. Preliminary findings from the interviews and group discussions will be analyzed further with the goal of informing health promotion strategies and project design to expand access to family planning options.

1. Access to male family planning methods in Timor-Leste – preliminary
findings from a qualitative participatory research project
Asia Pacific Conference on Reproductive and Sexual Health and Rights (APCRSHR 10)
Monday 20th July 2020
Helen Henderson (MPH, PhD candidate) – henderson@mariestopes.tl

2. Dr. Meghan A.
Bohren
Dr. Rui de Araújo Dr. Cathy Vaughan Alexandrina
Marques da Silva
Mariano da
Silva Tome
Helio Afranio Soares
Xavier
Helen Henderson Silvina Amaral
Mendonca

3.  A collaborative, participatory
research study about male
family planning methods in
Timor-Leste.
 Aims to provide new
evidence that can be used
to inform policy and
programmatic decision
making.
Introduction:

4. Context:

5. 2016 Timor-Leste DHS.
Unmet need, modern contraceptive use, and
percentage of demand satisfied with modern methods
used in Timor-Leste, 2010-2016
Context:
Source: 2016 Timor-Leste DHS.

6. Male family planning methods:
Modern Methods:
- Condom
- Vasectomy
Natural Methods:
- Withdrawal
- Standard days
- Abstinence
- Ovulation Billings Method

7. Methods include:
IDI with providers
PGDs with community members
Methodology:
 In-depth individual interviews with 24 health care providers
- Semi-structured interview
- Body mapping
 14 Participatory Group Discussions (PGDS) with 91 women and 84 men.
- Body mapping
- Vignettes (short stories)
- Discussion about family planning

8. PGD Body Mapping Process:

9. PGD Body Maps:

10. PGD Body Maps:

11. PGD Body Maps:

12. PGD Body Maps:

13. Next steps:
 Member checking
 More analysis
 Writing and sharing
• Operational research – informing health
promotion, team training, project design

14.  Helen Henderson – henderson@mariestopes.tl
 Alexandrina Marques da Silva - marques@mariestopes.tl
 Mariano da Silva Tome - tome@mariestopes.tl
 Helio Afranio Soares Xavier - helio.xavier@asiafoundation.org
 Silvina Amaral Mendonca - silvina@mariestopes.tl