EVALUATING THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIOCULTURAL BELIEFS ON THE USE OF ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES AMONG WOMEN IN RURAL CAMEROON.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Globally, oral contraceptives (OCs) play a critical role in family planning, birth control, and maternal health. Uregbulam & Namani (2019) averred that the optimal method for women of childbearing age to reduce the incidence of maternal and infant illness, improve their overall well-being, and prevent unintended pregnancies is by utilizing contemporary contraceptive methods. According to the World Health Organization (2019), contraceptives significantly reduce maternal mortality by preventing unplanned pregnancies and unsafe abortions. Okpani & Okpani (2020) averred that combined oral contraceptive pills were introduced in the 1960s. Since then, these pills have continued to be the predominant form of contraception utilised by women aged 15 to 34, particularly in the industrialized nations.

Epidemiologically, Achu (2020) pointed that oral contraceptive tablets are packed as either monophasic or phasic formulations. The combination oral contraceptive pill is highly successful, although its effectiveness is contingent upon adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen. Bizarrely, World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded that over 214 million women of reproductive age in developing countries have an unmet need for contraception, with a notable percentage being adolescents (WHO, 2020). However, in many rural communities in Cameroon, cultural norms, religious beliefs, and social perceptions continue to shape women’s reproductive health choices.

Specifically, women in rural Cameroon often face barriers such as limited access to contraceptives, a lack of accurate information, and the influence of sociocultural norms. For instance, some communities believe that the use of oral contraceptives could lead to infertility or negatively impact a woman’s future ability to conceive. These misconceptions are passed down through generations, creating a cultural narrative that discourages the use of contraceptives. According to Tanyi and Boboh (2021), these sociocultural norms stem from patriarchal structures that prioritize the role of women as child-bearers and discourage family planning initiatives. Ekane (2019) revealed that many religious institutions in rural Cameroon teach that the use of contraceptives contravenes divine will. Religious leaders often influence community attitudes, particularly in regions where religious beliefs are deeply embedded in social life. For example, the Catholic Church and some Islamic institutions strictly oppose artificial contraception, encouraging natural family planning methods instead.

In the opinion of Mbah and Nji (2020) educational disparities further compound the problem of contraceptive use among rural women. The study revealed that women with lower levels of education are more likely to be influenced by cultural myths surrounding contraceptives. Limited education restricts their understanding of the medical benefits of oral contraceptives and makes them more susceptible to misinformation. This lack of knowledge is exacerbated by poor healthcare infrastructure and inadequate family planning services in rural areas. In addition to level of education, Ngambouk, (2018) outlined that influence of male partners also plays a pivotal role in determining contraceptive use. In patriarchal communities, decisions regarding family planning are often made by men, who may hold reservations about the use of contraceptives. Howbeit, men’s resistance is often rooted in cultural beliefs about masculinity, fertility, and the social value of large families. According to Achu (2020), there is a widespread notion among men that using contraceptives challenges their authority and reduces their wives’ fertility. Thus, evaluating the impact of sociocultural beliefs on the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon is essential.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

In recent times, the utilization of oral contraceptives in rural Cameroon remains low despite government efforts to promote family planning. The persistence of sociocultural beliefs that discourage contraceptive use poses a significant challenge to women’s reproductive health. As noted by Tanyi and Boboh (2021), sociocultural norms, such as beliefs in the divine nature of fertility and the social expectation of large families, hinder the acceptance of oral contraceptives. These beliefs contribute to a high rate of unintended pregnancies and maternal mortality in rural regions.

Existing studies have explored the relationship between sociocultural factors and contraceptive use. For instance, Ngambouk (2018) found that traditional gender norms and male dominance negatively affect women’s autonomy in reproductive health decisions. However, few studies have focused specifically on the use of oral contraceptives in rural communities, where misconceptions about these contraceptives are prevalent. Research by Achu (2020) highlighted that misinformation about the side effects of oral contraceptives, such as alleged infertility or deformities in future pregnancies, remains widespread. Furthermore, religious opposition to contraceptive use in these communities creates additional barriers. Ekane (2019) emphasized the role of religious leaders in shaping public attitudes towards contraception, often discouraging its use. While some studies have examined the impact of religion on contraceptive use broadly, there is a gap in understanding how religious teachings specifically influence women’s decisions regarding oral contraceptives in rural Cameroon. Given these gaps in the literature, this study seeks to evaluate how sociocultural beliefs impact the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The primary objectives of this study is focused on evaluating the influence of sociocultural beliefs on the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon. Specifically, the study seeks :

1. To assess the influence of traditional beliefs on the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon.

2. To evaluate the role of religious beliefs in shaping attitudes towards oral contraceptives.

3. To examine the impact of educational disparities on the use of oral contraceptives.

4. To explore the influence of male partners on women’s decisions to use oral contraceptives.

5. To identify strategies to overcome sociocultural barriers to contraceptive use in rural communities.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How do traditional beliefs influence the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon?

2. What role do religious beliefs play in shaping attitudes towards oral contraceptives?

3. How do educational disparities impact the use of oral contraceptives in rural areas?

4. How do male partners influence women’s decisions regarding oral contraceptives?

5. What strategies can be employed to overcome sociocultural barriers to contraceptive use in rural communities?

1. 1. research Hypotheses

Ho: There is no significant influence of sociocultural beliefs on the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon.

Hi: There is a significant influence of sociocultural beliefs on the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is practically significant as it addresses the barriers to contraceptive use, which is crucial for improving maternal health outcomes in rural Cameroon. Healthcare policymakers will benefit from the findings by gaining insights into the sociocultural factors that impede the uptake of oral contraceptives. This understanding will help in formulating culturally sensitive policies and programs that address these barriers.

For healthcare practitioners, the study will provide valuable information on how sociocultural beliefs impact women’s reproductive health decisions. This knowledge will enable practitioners to tailor family planning services to meet the specific needs of women in rural communities, thereby improving service delivery.

Theoretically, this study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by expanding on the sociocultural determinants of contraceptive use. It will serve as a foundation for future research on reproductive health in rural settings, particularly in understanding the intersection of culture, religion, and gender roles in shaping health behaviors.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on evaluating the influence of sociocultural beliefs on the use of oral contraceptives among women in rural Cameroon. It examines the role of traditional beliefs, religious teachings, educational disparities, and male partner influence in shaping contraceptive use. The geographical scope of the study is limited to selected rural communities in Cameroon, where sociocultural beliefs strongly influence reproductive health practices.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

One limitation of this study is the reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias as respondents may underreport or overreport their contraceptive use due to social desirability. To mitigate this, the study will employ anonymous surveys to encourage honest responses.

Another limitation is the focus on rural communities, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to urban settings. However, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the specific challenges faced by rural women, which can guide targeted interventions.

1.9 Operational Definition of Terms

Oral Contraceptives: This is an oral medications taken, or procedures designed to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the fertilization of an egg by sperm or interfering with the implantation of a fertilized egg.

Sociocultural Beliefs: This the collective customs, traditions, religious teachings, and social norms that influence individual behavior and decision-making.

Reproductive Health: This is A state of physical, mental, and social well-being in matters related to the reproductive system.

Family Planning: This is the practice of controlling the number of children in a family and the intervals between their births, often through contraceptive methods.

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