African indigenous contraception: A review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Anthropology
• Ethnobotany

Background:

• Indigenous contraception methods are prevalent in Africa, coexisting with modern contraceptives.
• These traditional practices play a significant role in family planning and reproductive health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify common African indigenous contraception techniques and practices.
• To examine the underlying mechanisms and motivations for their use.
• To assess the current understanding of their safety and efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.).
• Inclusion of research articles, textbooks, theses, and dissertations on African indigenous contraception.
• Systematic review and synthesis of identified techniques and practices.

Main Results:

• Six common techniques identified: periodic abstinence, withdrawal, breastfeeding, herb use, postpartum abstinence, and waist bands.
• Practices include child spacing, delaying first birth, fertility cessation, and indigenous emergency contraception.
• Maternal and infant health are key reasons for employing these methods.

Conclusions:

• African indigenous contraception significantly contributes to preventing unwanted pregnancies.
• There is a critical need for more research to establish the mechanisms, safety, and efficacy of various traditional methods.
• Understanding these practices is crucial for comprehensive reproductive healthcare in Africa.