Exploring the reproductive health practices of formerly incarcerated Latino men (FILM)

Background: The reproductive health practices of formerly incarcerated populations, particularly men, have been overlooked in public health research and interventions. Formerly incarcerated Latino men (FILM) are an underserved community at high risk for numerous reproductive health-related-issues; however, studies have yet to examine the reproductive health profile and family planning practices of this understudied and underserved population. Methods: Findings to be presented emerged from qualitative in-depth interviews (n=40) and cross-sectional surveys (n=238) conducted with FILM, ages 18 to 55, recruited in New York and New Jersey in 2009-2011.Results: 24.1% of the sample reported that they did not use any contraceptive method; the most frequently used contraceptive methods were condoms (45.9%), rhythm or withdrawal (27.9%), and oral contraceptives (24.3%); 60.2% of the sample did not have children; of those with children, 51.4% had 1 or 2, 48.6% had 3 or more; 10.4% had gotten 1 woman pregnant; 29.4% had gotten 2 or more women pregnant. Qualitative findings suggest that women are perceived to be responsible for family planning, with limited or no discussion occurring between partners, regardless of the type of relationship (e.g., primary, concurrent, or casual). Conclusions: This study represents a critical first step in understanding the reproductive health practices of FILM; however, additional research is needed to document pregnancy intentions and determinants of reproductive health practices, as well as the influence of ideologies of masculinity and unique factors affecting formerly incarcerated populations (e.g., injection drug use, Hepatitis C infection) on the reproductive health practices of FILM.