Gender and Reproductive Behaviour: The Role of Men

Abstract

Concerned groups have in recent times argued strongly in favour of bringing men into the centre of debate and research on family planning, population control and the reproductive health of women. However, women continue as always to be treated as objects in families and communities, as well as in policies and programmes. The entire reproductive process from pregnancy to childbirth is a complex phenomenon that is socially and culturally determined, and women are excluded from decision making on issues concerning their own lives and bodies. Further, state policies and contraceptive technologies are mostly targeted at women. The implications of both social norms and state policies are reflected at the micro level of household. Based on a larger study, the paper shows that religion is a less influential factor than male dominance and cultural norms. The provision of better health and medical facilities by the government could, however, make a big difference to women's health as well as population control.