Introduction: This study ventured into understanding the dynamics of contraception using the lens of the male end user. It aimed to examine more fully the experience of male acceptors to elucidate why vasectomy failed as a contraceptive modality. Methods: This was a multiple case study which elucidated the in-depth experiences of six participants on failed vasectomy and how they perceived contraception. The analyses of interview transcripts and field notes were based on the inductive approach of identifying data by means of thematic codes which emerged in a four-level process. Results: Subthemes were 1) failure of health education to correct misconceptions, 2) failure in compliance, 3) failure in cognition and understanding, 4) failure in shared decision making, and 5) failure in contraceptive intentions. Themes that emerged as causes of failure in vasectomy were 1) failure of partnership, and 2) failure caused by low level of health literacy. Conclusion Failure of vasectomy was laden with antecedents that greatly influenced the manner by which the male acceptors behaved. The participants' perceptions of contraception were either changed or remained steadfast depending on how they had believed vasectomy to be of worth to them as a husband, father and male acceptor. In all but one participant, vasectomy became of no use to them thereafter.
Contraception ; Health Education ; Health Literacy