Document Type

Brief

Publication Date

2019

Abstract

Gendered norms and discriminatory practices often limit women’s decision-making power, which over time can lead to social norms that systematically subordinate women. Aspects of empowerment were explored in a global evaluation of Demographic and Health Survey data that measured how gendered social norms influenced maternal health-seeking behaviors. Analysis specifically explored associations of women’s autonomy and acceptability of intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) on antenatal care (ANC) use and facility delivery in 63 low- and middle-income countries. Service utilization is positively associated with increased autonomy and negatively associated with increased acceptability of IPVAW, but variability exists across countries and regions. In Bangladesh, maternal health-seeking behaviors are influenced by numerous interrelated factors. Little research exists on how gender dynamics and norms, including acceptability of various forms of IPVAW, may influence women’s decision-making autonomy, health-seeking behavior, and overall well-being. This country brief explores the relationship between women’s autonomy and acceptability of IPVAW and two primary maternal health-care utilization outcomes in Bangladesh.

DOI

10.31899/rh11.1001

Language

English

Project

Ending Eclampsia

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