The dynamics of marital status on reproductive health among rural women in Northern Senatorial District, Cross River State, Nigeria

Juliana Adie; Hannah Udom; Abue Elejie

Authors

Adie Juliana Jerome Department of Social Work, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria Author
Udom Hannah Thompson Department of Social Work, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria Author
Abue Regina Elejie Department of Public Administration, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria Author

Keywords:

Reproductive health, marital status, rural women, cultural norms, societal expectations

Abstract

This study investigates the dynamics of marital status on reproductive health among rural women in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State, Nigeria. Utilizing a cross sectional research approach, the research explores how cultural norms and societal expectations shape reproductive health outcomes for women. Quantitative data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to 380 women. The findings reveal significant disparities in reproductive health access and outcomes, influenced by marital status. Married women generally had better access to reproductive health services compared to their unmarried, divorced, and widowed counterparts. Stigmatization, financial constraints, and lack of awareness emerged as key barriers affecting the reproductive health of unmarried, divorced, and widowed women. The study recommends the implementation of community education programs, economic empowerment initiatives, and the integration of cultural sensitivity training for healthcare providers to address these disparities.

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