The intersection of spousal violence and contraceptive use presents a complex challenge for practitioners working in the field of public health and family planning. A recent study titled Spousal Violence and Contraceptive Use among Married Afghan Women in a Nationally Representative Sample sheds light on this critical issue, offering valuable insights that can inform practice and policy.
The Context: Afghanistan's Socio-Political Landscape
Afghanistan is a country grappling with high rates of spousal violence and low contraceptive use. According to the 2015 Afghanistan Demographic and Health Survey, 56% of married women reported experiencing spousal violence, while only 23% reported using contraception. This disparity highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions that address both gender-based violence and reproductive health.
Key Findings from the Study
The study analyzed data from nearly 19,000 Afghan women aged 15 to 49. It found that women who experienced any form of spousal violence were significantly more likely to use contraception (adjusted odds ratio = 1.93). Among those using contraception, women experiencing multiple types of violence were more inclined to use methods under their control, such as pills and injectables.
- Pills: Women experiencing two or three types of spousal violence were more likely to use pills compared to male-involved methods (adjusted risk ratio = 2.12).
- Injectables: These were also preferred by women facing multiple types of violence (adjusted risk ratio = 1.75).
- Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM): This method was notably used by women facing multiple types of violence (adjusted risk ratio = 3.27).
Implications for Practitioners
The findings underscore the importance of making contraceptive methods that are under women's control more accessible. Practitioners should advocate for policies that increase access to pills, injectables, and other non-male-involved methods. Additionally, there is a need for comprehensive education programs that empower women with knowledge about their reproductive rights and options.
Policy Recommendations
- Create Safe Spaces: Establish safe environments where women can discuss their reproductive health without fear of retribution.
- Culturally Sensitive Education: Develop educational programs that respect cultural norms while promoting gender equality.
- Advocacy: Work with policymakers to ensure that women's rights are protected under national laws.
The Role of Further Research
This study opens the door for further research into the socio-cultural factors influencing contraceptive use in contexts like Afghanistan. Future studies should explore the reasons behind method choice and investigate how cultural norms impact women's reproductive autonomy.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link.
