Causes of short birth interval (kunika) in Bauchi State, Nigeria : systematizing local knowledge with fuzzy cognitive mapping

Abstract

In Bauchi State (northern Nigeria), “kunika” describes a short interval between successive births, understood as becoming pregnant again before the previous child is weaned. Participants of the study mapped common causes of kunika: frequent sex; not using modern or traditional contraception; and family dynamics. Women indicated forced sex as an important cause, but men focused on lack of awareness about contraception and fear of side effects. Promoting contraception is unlikely to be enough on its own to reduce kunika. The summary maps can help local stakeholders to co-design culturally safe ways of reducing kunika.

Description

Keywords

FAMILY PLANNING, CONTRACEPTION, PREGNANCY, CHILD SPACING, REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH, HARMFUL TRADITIONAL PRACTICES, MALES, MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH, NIGERIA, SOUTH OF SAHARA

Citation

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