Speaker
Description
Background: Reproductive health inequalities persist in rural areas, particularly among marginalized communities like the Meo-Muslim population, due to various socio-cultural and economic factors. This study aims to identify and comprehend the distinct reproductive health obstacles facing Meo-Muslim women in study area.
Objectives: The research has two main objectives: firstly, to clarify the specific reproductive health issues experienced by Meo-Muslim women within their socio-cultural setting, and secondly, to investigate the factors influencing these challenges, including cultural norms, access to healthcare, and socio-economic circumstances.
Methodology: Using a qualitative approach, this ethnography study seeks to capture the nuanced perspectives and lived experiences of 40 participants. Purposive and exponential discriminative snowball sampling techniques will be employed to recruit Meo-Muslim women of reproductive age from study area. Data collection methods include key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and individual in-depth interviews with women aged 15 to 49 years.
Findings: Key findings underscore the prevalence of early marriage, limited spousal communication, inadequate contraceptive use, frequent and closely spaced pregnancies, lack of knowledge about menstrual hygiene, and frequent reproductive tract infections. Thematic analysis will be used to identify recurring patterns and themes related to reproductive health challenges.
Conclusion: The study aims to enhance understanding of the reproductive health needs of rural Meo-Muslim women and to inform the development of culturally sensitive interventions aimed at improving reproductive health outcomes in this community. This research paper contributes to the ongoing efforts to empower women in the Meo-Muslim women of this community, promoting their social, economic, and overall well-being.
Keywords: Meo-Muslim Women; Reproductive health; Healthcare challenges; Qualitative study; Nuh