Practices, taboos and techniques of indigenous contraception among Batswana traditional healers in Ngaka Modiri Molema district, South Africa

Abstract

In South Africa, modern contraceptives are promoted more than indigenous contraceptives. Despite free access to modern contraceptives, teenage pregnancy remains a serious challenge in South Africa. Indigenous contraception could provide women and girls a way to avoid unwanted pregnancies. The purpose of this study was to document practices, taboos and techniques of indigenous contraception among the Batswana traditional healers in Ngaka Modiri Molema, North West province of South Africa. Seven participants were sampled through a purposive snowball technique. Qualitative data was collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews. Thematic data analysis was used to evaluate and synthesise the data. The three themes on practices, taboos and techniques of indigenous contraception were reviewed, and subsequently refined into corresponding subthemes. The following practices of indigenous contraception were documented: birth spacing, virginity, and sterilisation. The following taboos related to pregnancy under various circumstances were documented: after death of a spouse, following divorce, during breastfeeding, after miscarriage and abortion, as well as sex during menstruation. Techniques of indigenous contraception documented included: abstinence, use of animal intestines, burial techniques, drinking water, vaginal stitching, waist techniques, avoidance of certain foods, withdrawal and eating certain soils. In conclusion, Batswana traditional healers in Ngaka Modiri Molema possess abundant knowledge regarding indigenous contraception. Documentation of these practices, taboos and techniques of indigenous contraception is important for conservation of the Batswana culture. Recommendations for health policy regarding the role of indigenous knowledge constructs in contraception are proffered.