This research examined the traditional practices and beliefs about contraception and female fertility among the kichwa Otavalo people. Their sociocultural legacy remains largely unrecognized and is gradually being lost due to the effects of cultural dynamics, insufficient research, and the inadequate articulation of this knowledge within the National Health System. This ethnographic study reveals traditional contraceptive practices, identifies traditional knowledge that promotes female fertility, characterizes fertility rituals, and elucidates their underlying meanings from the worldview of kichwa women. The study employed an ethnographic approach, involving 37 pakarichik mamakuna, or midwives, 50 kichwa mothers, and four health professionals. For contraception, women use various plants and spices, as well as the practice of uterine lifting known as “encaderamiento”. To stimulate fertility, women often use infusions, decoctions, or poultices; perform cleansing rituals; reposition the uterus; take steam baths (temazcal); and/or consume a traditional healthy diet. Ultimately, cultural, therapeutic, spiritual, and symbolic wisdom has the potential to enrich Andean scientific knowledge, strengthen cultural identity, and promote social cohesion among the kichwa Otavalo people.
