Sexually transmitted infections: An indigenous African context

Excerpt

In modern biomedicine, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are classified according to their causes, treatments and complications. The range of nomenclature associated with these infections is known and accepted globally. However, cultural perceptions and beliefs also influence the understanding of health care in general, as well as STIs in particular, known as malwadze a vhudzekani in Tshivenḓa and malwetši a thobalano in Sepedi. Several research studies were conducted on the perceptions of community members and indigenous knowledge holders concerning the types of known STIs and the language used to describe them as treated by traditional health care practitioners. However, the indigenous treatment options are still not well-documented in Africa. In that regard, this chapter focuses on the documentation of the historical and current background of STIs in Africa in the context of their causes, treatment modalities and plant species used for treatment. The chapter also focuses on methods that can be used to mitigate risks and risky behaviours through preventive and promotive measures that are accessible, culturally safe and acceptable. The chapter concludes with an emphasis on the need for health care professionals to develop their knowledge and understanding of STIs, as well as their naming from an indigenous perspective. It is recommended that the indigenous domain of STIs be included in the health care professionals’ curriculum.