Contraception and culture: the use of yuyos in Paraguay.

ABSTRACT

PIP: According to the 1995-96 Paraguayan Reproductive Health Survey of 6465 reproductive-age females, women are more familiar with herbs (yuyos) than any other method of contraception. These herbs are prepared most frequently as teas and drunk every day. 88% of respondents were aware of yuyos. Bivariate analysis indicated that current yuyo users were geographically isolated, older, less educated, poorer, and more likely to speak Guarani in the home than non-users. In the multivariate analysis, ever-use of yuyos was significantly associated with older age (odds ratio (OR), 1.043) and more children (OR, 2.283), while high education (OR, 0.883) and urban residence (0.664) were inversely related to ever-use. Since no protocol exists for yuyo use for contraception, indigenous women rely on word-of-mouth advice and may be at risk of toxic side effects from improper use. Needed, to reduce this risk, are research studies on the use of herbs in other countries for contraceptive purposes and more rigorous testing of the chemical agents found in plants used for fertility control. If efficacy is discovered, additional research is recommended to identify the conditions under which and for how long yuyos should be taken for contraception or menstrual regulation. Any program that builds on yuyo use to promote use of modern contraceptive methods must proceed in a culturally sensitive way.