Use of Popular Traditional Contraceptive Methods among Women of Reproductive Age in the Yopougon District of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines the use of popular traditional contraceptive methods (PTCMs) among women in Côte d’Ivoire. It is based on the observation that the average fertility rate, estimated at 4.3 children per woman, rises to 5.3 in rural areas. However, the national contraceptive prevalence remains relatively low, estimated at 21%, of which 3% use traditional methods. Given the significant proportion of women turning to traditional contraception to meet their family planning (FP) needs, this study explores the social rationales behind the preference for PTCMs over modern contraceptive methods (MCMs). Methodology: This is a qualitative study that collected data from 15 users of PTCMs, 3 traditional practitioners, 2 female herbalists, and 2 healthcare providers through in-depth individual interviews. The data enabled an exploration of women’s experiences with PTCMs, the reasons for abandoning MCMs, and the identification of medicinal plants and cultural practices used. Audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed, translated, and coded using thematic analysis through an inductive approach. Results: The study reveals that the reasons for resorting to MCTPs include, women’s deep-seated fear of the alleged side effects of MCMs, specifically infertility. Most women prefer PTCMs due to their perceived safety and long-term effectiveness, financial accessibility, and alignment with religious and cultural values and attachment to religious and cultural values. Various substances (bark, root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, seed, kernel, whole plant, and entire root) are used to prepare remedies that help women avoid unwanted pregnancies. Additionally, some innovative practices (belt, post-coital removal of semen, talisman, etc.) with similar purposes were identified. Conclusion: The study concludes that the adverse effects associated with MCMs hinder their sustainable use among women of reproductive age in Côte d’Ivoire. Moreover, African traditions are rich in a wide variety of contraceptive methods and practices used by women with unmet family planning needs. It would therefore be appropriate to regulate and promote these methods in order to contribute to the reduction of maternal mortality, especially considering that a significant proportion of women of reproductive age rely on PTCMs.