Preferences and Motivations of Women Who Use Traditional Contraceptive Methods to Avoid Pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: When it comes to family planning, requirements and preferences vary among couples. Because of their mixed effectiveness, traditional contraceptive methods are often associated and accounted as unmet needs. However, interest in these methods is growing significantly. Nevertheless, knowledge of the reasons for the decision and using traditional contraceptive methods remains limited. The purpose of this study was to identify the preferences and motivations of women who use traditional contraceptive methods to avoid pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa. Method: A literature search was conducted in three electronic databases (PubMed/Biomed Central/Medline, Embase, CINAHL). Two independent individuals selected the eligible quantitative, qualitative, and mixed studies published between 2011 and 2020. We conducted a narrative synthesis to organize and group preferences and motivations that facilitate traditional contraceptive methods use. Results: Abstinence, withdrawal, breastfeeding, rhythm method were the main preferences to contraceptive planning methods identified. Factors influencing the use of traditional contraceptive methods were the lack of knowledge, the side effects, the bad experience with the modern contraceptive methods, spousal communication around family planning, the husband’s opposition to modern methods, availability, accessibility, and the absence of side effects as well as the character of the traditional methods, the fact of living in an urban environment as well as the age beyond 30 years. Conclusion: This review identified preferences and motivations for using traditional contraceptive methods. These findings could be considered in different family planning programs to understand their role and help to estimate the contraceptive prevalence better.