ID-5184 Wonca Abstracts supplement A-K 13-10-23 - Flipbook - Page 295
WONCA 2023 Supplement 1: WONCA 2023 abstracts (A–K)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
Natural family planning, an option in reproductive
healthcare: A qualitative study on clinicians’ perceptions,
South Africa
Dr Ozo Ibeziako
University of Pretoria
Background
Natural family planning (NFP) empowers women through education on charting and interpretive skills
toward self-knowledge, health reasons and family planning purposes. They learn to be in control of
their reproductive health and approach fertility as a normal biological process. Substantive literature
supports its comparative effectiveness with contraceptive methods, but remains a myth to clinicians
and users.
This study aimed to understand clinicians’ perceptions regarding offering NFP to patients as part of
reproductive healthcare by exploring clinicians’ knowledge, describing perceptions of effectiveness
and identifying enabling and deterring factors.
Methodology
Basic interpretive qualitative research design was appropriate for obtaining an in-depth description
of this phenomenon. Fifteen participants, doctors and nurses from diverse cultural and educational
backgrounds, were selected – purposeful and snowballing sampling techniques – and interviewed.
Transcribed data were analysed, identifying recurrent themes through categorisation.
Results
Participant characteristics did not influence their perception of NFP. They had confused information on
NFP methods and no knowledge of modern NFP. The need to bridge the knowledge gap, competency
and preparedness to render holistic reproductive healthcare were motivators. Being empowered
would change negative attitudes, beliefs and practices favouring NFP. Including NFP as policy and its
advocacy would enhance reception by clinicians and users.
Conclusion
Policy, effectiveness and professional culture emerged as major themes influencing participants to
choose NFP or not as an option for a woman’s reproductive healthcare. Underlying these themes is
the necessity to train competent clinicians to offer a holistic approach to reproductive healthcare. Early
education of male and female children would prepare responsive and sexually responsible adults.
Matching policy with advocacy would enhance attaining national health goals. Medical and nursing
professional board should work towards an all-inclusive curriculum.
293