Understanding The Lived Experiences of Women on Reproductive Empowerment in District Mansehra

Abstract

This study investigates the lived experiences of women regarding the reproductive autonomy and empowerment in District Mansehra of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Qualitative research paradigm was used wherein in-depth interviews of 20 women purposively selected in rural health center, Basic health unit and hospitals were conducted. The data was thematically analyzed revealing that patriarchal norms, traditional male machismo and dominancy were found as crucial factors potentially determining reproductive empowerment. Economic independence of women and educational attainment of male and female were found as positive contributors to women sexuality, bodily autonomy and reproductive choices.  It is concluded from the study although reproductive health, choices, and empowerment is culturally sensitive dimension of society, but these could be negotiated with social indicators including education, financial autonomy and community level awareness. The present research presents crucial insight into how to improve reproductive autonomy of women by formulating evidence based policy recommendations and stakeholder sensitization.