Aspiring to establish a family: Reproductive health among young unmarried women in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Issue 2 (1st February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Burgess, Sarah; Kra, Kouamé Walter; Allen, Marc; Vandermark, Jessica; Turke, Shani
• Is Part Of: Culture, health & sexuality. Volume 24:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 210
• Page End: 225
• Publication Date: 2022-02-01
• Subjects: Gender -- Côte d'Ivoire -- reproductive health -- family planning -- relationships; Sex -- Periodicals; Sex -- Cross-cultural studies -- Periodicals; Sex -- Health aspects -- Periodicals; 306.705
• DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2020.1826580
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1369-1058

Abstract

Abstract: In Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, young women navigate a complicated transition from adolescence to adult life. In an evolving context, young women are expected to succeed in education and the economy, while negotiating the social pressure to start families and prove womanhood by becoming mothers. In this project, we closely followed twenty young adult unmarried women who desire to find a life partner or have a child soon. The study sought to understand women's experiences and reproductive health needs using a variety of methods, including daily diary keeping, in-depth interviews, focus groups and interactive exercises. Research indicated that young adult women who aspire to establish a family must navigate conflicting pressures, making it challenging for them to identify and act on their own fertility needs. Women who use family planning prioritise their future fertility and navigate complex social dynamics while selecting a method. The study builds on existing literature and contributes additional insight into the nuanced family planning needs and experiences of single women who aspire to establish a family, particularly around fertility desires, the use of calendar methods, and economic and social empowerment.