THE INFLUENCE OF RELIGION ON THE CHOICE AND ADHERENCE TO AVAILABLE CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS: A LITERATURE REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/arev8n6-085Keywords:
Contraception, Religiosity, Family Planning, Reproductive Health, Contraceptive MethodsAbstract
Contraception is an important strategy for promoting sexual and reproductive health, being directly related to autonomy, family planning, and the prevention of unplanned pregnancies. In this context, sociocultural factors can influence contraceptive choices, including religiosity. This study aimed to analyze the influence of religion on the choice and adherence to contraceptive methods. This is an integrative literature review, conducted through a search in selected scientific databases, using descriptors related to contraception, religiosity, and reproductive planning. Initially, 35 records were identified, of which 4 were excluded due to duplication. After reading titles, abstracts, and applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 27 studies comprised the final sample of the review. The results showed that religiosity exerts a significant influence on contraceptive behavior, interfering both in the choice and in the acceptance or rejection of certain methods. It was observed that religious beliefs can favor a preference for natural methods or restrict the use of hormonal methods and intrauterine devices, although this relationship does not occur homogeneously among individuals and religious groups. Associated factors such as education, access to information, socioeconomic context, and individual autonomy were also identified, interacting with religiosity in the reproductive decision-making process. It is concluded that the relationship between religion and contraception is complex, multifactorial, and contextual, and should be understood more broadly by healthcare professionals. The importance of culturally sensitive, person-centered approaches based on respect for individual beliefs is highlighted, with a view to promoting informed reproductive choices, expanding access to contraceptive methods, and strengthening reproductive autonomy.
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