DRC refugee women and access to contraceptives in Durban

This study documents the experiences of DRC Durban-based refugee women; i.e. their access to and choice of contraceptives. Being able to make the decisions regarding the issues of one¿s reproductive health, the control of one¿s fertility in particular is most definitely basic to the empowerment of the individual and central to the emancipation of that individual. For this study, the term contraceptives refers to a form of birth control which could be a regimen of one or more actions, devices, or medications used with the intention to purposefully prevent or reduce the likelihood of pregnancy or childbirth. A qualitative methodology appeared to be appropriate in order to better understand DRC refugee women¿s choices that arise from varied experiences in accessing contraceptives. The findings of this study show that the access and choice of contraceptive methods among these women is gendered and is a product of society. Changes therefore are necessary in order to eliminate all negative attitudes towards contraceptive access and choices.