Assessing the nexus between coitus interruptus, sexual reproductive health and rights

Coitus interruptus (CI) is a commonly used but relatively ineffective contraceptive method, particularly among younger individuals and disadvantaged populations. Its use is influenced by socioeconomic factors and cultural acceptance, varying globally according to fertility intentions and the availability of modern contraceptive methods. This paper examined the nexus between CI and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) to generate evidence for a larger study on CI. Multiple theoretical frameworks, the Reproductive Justice Framework, the Theory of Reasoned Action, and the Theory of Gender and Power, were adopted to explore the relationship between CI and SRHR. These frameworks highlight how attitudes, perceived social norms, and power dynamics influence behavioural intentions and contraceptive practices as social constructs. A rapid review approach was employed to examine the nexus between CI and SRHR, integrating the aforementioned theoretical perspectives. The Polyglot Search Translator was used to identify relevant articles from PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, while Lens.org and Google Scholar were used to retrieve additional references. The search focused on the keywords “CI” and “sexual and reproductive rights (SRH)” and covered publications from 2010 to 2025, yielding 50 articles for analysis. The review discusses how power dynamics can obscure gender-related issues and how attitudes and perceived social norms shape behavioural intentions regarding CI and its implications for SRHR. Decisions concerning the use of CI affect SRHR outcomes and are influenced by factors such as anxiety, interpersonal conflict, perceptions of risk, and socio-cultural beliefs. The review also identifies a significant gap in the literature concerning CI as a human rights issue. The paper underscores the importance of linking these findings to international frameworks for reproductive justice. It advocates for universal access to reliable contraceptive methods in support of reproductive rights and sexual autonomy. Furthermore, it recommends collaboration among researchers, academic institutions, and healthcare professionals to strengthen the evidence base and inform contraceptive policies and programmes.