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Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of Batswana women towards indigenous contraception

Molelekwa Arthur(1), MA Moroole(2), Simeon Albert(3), SA Materechera(4), Adeyemi Oladapo(5), AO Aremu(6),


(1) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Mail Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2790, North-West Province, South Africa
(2) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Mail Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2790, North-West Province, South Africa
(3) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Mail Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2790, North-West Province, South Africa
(4) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Mail Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2790, North-West Province, South Africa
(5) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Mail Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2790, North-West Province, South Africa
(6) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Mail Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2790, North-West Province, South Africa
Corresponding Author

Abstract


Indigenous contraception can play a significant role in reducing unwanted pregnancies in Africa. The objective of the study was to evaluate women’s knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards indigenous contraction. Three hundred and eighty-three (383) women were sampled randomly. Data was collected using a research questionnaire that included multiple choice questions and a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square (x2) test of independence were used for data analysis, with P-value < 0.05. The overall knowledge was poor, with abstinence being the only technique known by majority women. Most young women (20-40 years) had a negative attitude and bad perception about indigenous contraception. Older women were associated with more knowledge and better attitudes toward indigenous contraception (P<0.05). Older women need to assist in awareness campaigns to improve young women’s knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards indigenous contraception.

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