Health experts and reproductive rights advocates are raising the alarm over the growing preference for traditional family planning methods among couples in Akwa Ibom State, warning of potential public health setbacks if the trend continues unchecked.
Recent findings from local health facilities and community surveys indicate a noticeable shift from modern contraceptive methods—such as intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injectables, and oral contraceptives—towards traditional practices, including the calendar method, withdrawal, and the use of herbal concoctions. This trend, according to health professionals, is driven by misinformation, cultural beliefs, fear of side effects from modern contraceptives, and limited access to quality reproductive health education.
Changing Trends and Cultural Influences
In various rural communities across the state, particularly in areas such as Ikot Ekpene, Etinan, and Oron, traditional family planning methods are being promoted by local elders and herbal practitioners. These methods, although familiar and culturally accepted, have been shown to be significantly less effective in preventing unplanned pregnancies.
Mrs. Iniobong Udofia, a 32-year-old mother of four in Abak, shared her reason for abandoning modern contraceptives. “I used to take family planning injections, but they made me gain too much weight and I had irregular periods,” she said. “Now, I just avoid my husband during my unsafe days. That’s what my mother used, and it worked for her.”
This sentiment is echoed by many women in the region who report experiencing side effects such as weight gain, prolonged bleeding, and hormonal imbalances. In the absence of proper counseling or access to a variety of contraceptive options, many opt to stop using modern methods entirely.
Health Experts Voice Concerns
Dr. Emmanuel Ikott, a reproductive health specialist at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, expressed serious concern about the situation. “The shift to traditional methods is worrying. Most of these methods have very high failure rates when compared to modern alternatives. We’re already seeing an increase in cases of unplanned pregnancies, especially among teenagers and young women who rely on myths and guesswork.”
Dr. Ikott emphasized the importance of proper counseling, adding that many of the reported side effects of modern contraceptives can be managed or avoided entirely with the right medical support. “It’s not enough to administer contraceptives. We must also educate women and men about their choices, what to expect, and how to manage any side effects,” he said.
Access and Misinformation
One of the driving forces behind this shift appears to be a lack of access to comprehensive reproductive health services in remote parts of Akwa Ibom. Many Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are either under-resourced or understaffed, making it difficult for residents to access reliable information and services.
Furthermore, misinformation spreads easily in the absence of verified sources. In several communities, religious and traditional leaders discourage the use of modern contraceptives, linking them to infertility, promiscuity, and moral decline. This has led to stigmatization and fear among women who might otherwise be open to using modern methods.
“People still believe that contraceptives can make a woman barren or lead to serious health complications,” said Mrs. Ekong, a community health worker in Ibesikpo. “We try to educate them, but it’s hard to change long-held beliefs without consistent outreach.”
Call for Government and NGO Intervention
Reproductive health advocates are calling for renewed efforts from the government, NGOs, and international partners to invest in community-based health education and expand access to family planning services. They argue that a comprehensive approach involving community engagement, youth-friendly centers, and mobile clinics could help reverse the growing reliance on traditional methods.
“We need to take the conversation to the grassroots,” said Idara Bassey, a program coordinator with a local NGO. “The government should fund awareness campaigns, train more community health workers, and ensure that every health facility has trained personnel and supplies.”
The Way Forward
While traditional methods are not without merit—especially when used correctly and consistently—they require a level of discipline and awareness that is often lacking due to limited education and cultural myths. Experts agree that empowering individuals with knowledge and choices is the best path forward.
As Akwa Ibom continues to grapple with population growth, youth unemployment, and maternal health challenges, ensuring access to effective and safe family planning methods will be crucial to sustainable development.
Until then, the state faces the risk of reversing the progress made in reproductive health over the past decade—unless urgent action is taken.
