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Could plant derived contraceptives be a better alternative to synthetic contraceptives in Uganda?

Author: Amanjot Kaur

Author origin: Indian



Photo credit : Nature’s sunshine


SUMMARY

In the past, several communities relied entirely on natural contraceptive methods but with changing environments and advancing technology, a shift in trend from practicing such traditional methods of contraception to adoption of newer ones has been noted.

Despite the effectiveness of commonly used standard contraceptive methods, the side effects associated with their use is a major concern thus there is a need to re focus our research towards finding alternative methods that are not only accessible, cheap, effective and safe for use but also offer wider options of choice for males.

More to this, some commonly used contraception methods are associated with endometrial carcinomas, venous thromboembolism, menstrual problems among others aggravating health disorders.

On the other hand, reliable research on plants with anti-fertility effects is present in literature which lays a firm foundation in support of finding an effective and natural contraceptive with minimal or no side effects compared to available synthetic contraceptives.

Studies have revealed the safety and different activities of Carica papaya seeds. In addition to having anti-fertility effects it was also proven to have anti-tumor activity and immunomodulatory effects.

Furthermore, there were no pathological changes in the tissues of the animals that received extract doses and protective effects of aqueous extract of Carica papaya seeds in paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity in male rats was documented by researchers. Mentha arvensis is another plant whose anti-fertility potential is promising. The effects of both these extracts were shown to be reversible after discontinuation.

Significant numbers of unplanned pregnancies in Uganda are due to failure of used contraceptive methods, inability to access needed contraceptive methods of choice, financial strains (limiting people from buying contraceptives), are some of the leading cause of increasing cases of fetus terminations.

The fetus termination often does not comply with the standard procedures leading to death of women, infertility, infections and other reproductive system disorders. The accompanied mental health issues associated to stigmatization and unwanted pregnancies further expose women to vulnerabilities and denial to basic rights of contraception.


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