Social aspects related to the introduction of a birth control vaccine.

Researchers address potential user attitudes and reactions to antifertility vaccines particularly the anti-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) vaccine. Since they will most likely be widely used in developing countries the discussion centers on women in developing countries. A key disadvantage of antifertility vaccines is that they are not readily reversible. Family planning and population professionals must consider cultural factors. For example limiting births may be undesirable for religious reasons or because husbands want large families. Yet the vaccine does not cause changes in menstrual patterns which may make it culturally acceptable in some countries. Low integration in a community and limited social networks pose potential social limits to acceptance and use of vaccines in some developing countries. Professionals must consider economic factors when determining accessibility. Since poor women tend to have greater fertility they would be the most likely candidates for the antifertility vaccine so the costs must be minimal or the vaccine should be free. Support by community leaders and policymakers is needed to encourage the people to accept the vaccine. Political abuse should not occur however such as forcing the vaccines on women who do not want them. Well thought out guidelines must regulate antifertility vaccine delivery in both the public and private sectors. Family planning personnel should thoroughly inform women of the advantages and disadvantages of the vaccine. They must also clearly explain that the vaccine induces infertility and not abortion. Health workers must be trained to administer the vaccines correctly. Information potential users need include the interval between injection and return of fertility means to determine fertility has returned what to do if they are already pregnant when they receive the injection the vaccines effect on breast feeding and drug interactions. Potential users depend on the culture.