Gender and Reproductive Health

In Zambia the institution of marriage has not been explored so much using the gender lens. Dont be too quick to judge, but our culture is so deep roted that one has to be careful when dealing with this institution. The ideal situation for any society advocating for gender equality is that both wife and husband must be equal partners in making major and challenging decisions which include those dealing with reproductive issues. However, the authority of the husband over the wife is often claimed to be an aspect of the Zambian culture and sanctioned by Christian teaching. There are unsubstantiated claims from some women in everyday talk that there are inequalities in decision making regarding reproductive issues in marriages in Zambia. This book therefore provides research driven decision making patterns among married mothers attending antenatal clinic at Chainama Hospital in Lusaka the capital city of Zambia. It shows the confluence of Gender and Reproductive health and is useful to all those fighting against gender inequality. It adds to the body of knowledge in as far as gender and Marriage is concerned.