Scholars International Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (SIJTCM)
Volume-8 | Issue-02 | 20-27
Original Research Article
Investigating the Beliefs towards Traditional Medicine Use and the Effectiveness of Herbal Products for Managing Male Infertility in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana
Eugene F. Boachie, Victor C. Wutor, Akosua O. Atua-Ntow, Benoit B. N’guessan
Published : Feb. 8, 2025
Abstract
Background: Male infertility is a significant reproductive health concern affecting millions of couples worldwide. While conventional medical interventions offer viable solutions, an increasing number of individuals are turning towards traditional medicine, specifically herbal products, as an alternative approach to managing male infertility. Methods: The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. A survey questionnaire was administered to 100 consented adult men with fertility issues to explore their beliefs about traditional medicine and the effectiveness of the herbal products they used. Results: Out of the 100 participants recruited, about 74% preferred herbal products over orthodox medicines to manage infertility. The majority (75%) thought that herbal products were effective in managing male infertility, 41% of them noticed a change in their sperm parameters after using the herbal product of interest, and (33%) thought that the herbal product was responsible for them impregnating their partners. Most respondents (93%) did not experience any side effects after using the herbal products, with only a few of them (7%) reporting side effects. Conclusions: People's beliefs about traditional medicine vary based on their personal experiences and those of others. Based on research findings, herbal products' effectiveness in managing male infertility has shown promising results and should be investigated further.