A Conversation with MCI Fellow Youmna Hashem

Our most recent MCI Fellow Youmna Hashem sat down with us to discuss her interest in male contraception and motivation in her work. This blog post shares highlights from that conversation.

What do you think about male contraception?
I believe male contraception is crucial for achieving gender equality in reproductive health. It empowers men to take active roles in family planning and alleviates the burden often placed solely on women. Male contraception provides couples with more options to make informed decisions that suit their needs and lifestyles.

What motivated you to work at MCI? What did you accomplish/work on at MCI?
My motivation to join MCI was driven by my commitment to advancing public health and my specific interest in the impacts of social and cultural dynamics on health behaviors in the MENA region. At MCI, I've been working on a landscape review focused on understanding the local perceptions and beliefs about male contraception. I am also developing an information-gathering tool to capture the views in this region, which will aid in creating more targeted and effective health interventions.

What are some things that you wish everyone knew about male contraception?
I wish more people understood that male contraception is not just about condoms or vasectomies. There is ongoing research and developments in hormonal and non-hormonal methods that could provide reversible and effective options for men. Awareness about these potential choices is essential for destigmatizing male involvement in contraception and encouraging shared responsibility in family planning.

What impact do you think new male methods of contraception will have on the world?
The introduction of new male contraceptive methods has the potential to significantly change societal norms and health outcomes globally. Providing more family planning options can lead to a more equitable distribution of responsibility between genders. This can enhance personal autonomy, reduce unplanned pregnancies, and ultimately contribute to better economic and health outcomes for families and communities.

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