Karusi Province, Burundi – Gaspard Baransananiye, 49, is something of a rarity in his region. He ranks among a handful of men who have taken it upon themselves to be responsible for contraception.
His decision to have a vasectomy (a minor surgical procedure that stops sperm from being released when a man ejaculates) as an effective method of family planning sets him apart because, where he lives, the tendency is to believe that contraceptive methods are suitable only for women.
Yet despite men's concerns, the procedure is regarded as one of the most effective means of birth control. A man who has undergone a vasectomy is able to perform his sexual duties normally, the only difference being that he is unable to get his partner pregnant. He does not lose his sex drive, nor become impotent - two common myths that prevail.
Gaspard agrees that men can also contribute to family planning. Following discussions with his wife, he chose to undergo a vasectomy and as a result, has contributed to greater sensitization of people living in their community.
Security situation led to informed choice
Gaspard’s family grew unexpectedly in size due to political instability and the prevailing security concerns in Burundi. "When the war broke out in 1993, we had one child and were forced to host three orphans. Then we had (another) four children, bringing the total to eight children to support. We had to ensure their education, clothing and coverage of other primary needs," said Gaspard.
In seeking an answer to their concerns, Gaspard and Spéciose, his wife, 46, reflected on how they could take better care of the children in their charge. They agreed it would be wise to use contraceptives to manage the number of children they produced.
"We decided to go to the hospital to get more information on the best method to use," said Gaspard, looking tenderly at his wife. After being counselled by a doctor, the couple chose vasectomy because "family planning is not just for women."
A choice that made the difference
Gaspard was the first in his region to use this form of contraception. As a result he has become an example for other men regarding the role they, too, can play in family planning. He is now a torch bearer in his region for vasectomy and a source of information.
"Several people have asked me questions about rumours around vasectomy – in particular, if it has anything to do with castration and if, after such an operation, the man keeps his manhood or is no longer able to have sex," said Gaspard. With a smile on his lips, he added, "I think I'm even more effective than before; my wife will tell you more," and burst into laughter.
Gaspard advises his peers not to listen to nor deal in rumours. Meanwhile, health facilities in the area are able to provide clear and precise information on contraceptive choices for couples wanting to use birth control. UNFPA Burundi supports health facilities in providing contraceptive methods and building the capacity of staff.
By Nadège Ininahazwe
