Reproductive Autonomy, Family Planning Attitudes and Affecting Factors in Married Women of Reproductive Age

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine reproductive autonomy, family planning attitudes and influencing factors of married women of reproductive age. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 344 women in Turkey between May and September 2024. Participants completed a sociodemographic form, the Reproductive Autonomy Scale, and the International Family Planning Attitude Scale. The data obtained were analysed using SPSS 25 software. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis were used to evaluate the data. Statistical significance was assessed at the p<.05 level. Results: Participants had a mean age of 33.53±7.81 years and 64.5% had university education or higher. The average reproductive autonomy level was 2.96±0.43 and the mean family planning attitude level was 138.28±23.69. Reproductive autonomy was positively correlated with educational level, family planning use and family planning attitude (p<.05). Educational level and employment status significantly predicted family planning attitude (p<.05). Conclusion: This study contributes to the field by identifying the factors that influence the reproductive autonomy and family planning attitudes of married women in Turkey. This information can then be used to guide socio-economic planning of interventions targeting women's reproductive health. In this regard, it is recommended that educational programmes for women be expanded, employment opportunities be promoted, and community-based reproductive health services be increased.

Keywords

• Family planning attitudes
• reproductive age
• reproductive autonomy
• women

Supporting Institution

The authors have not received any funding support related to this work.

Ethical Statement

Before starting the study, approval was obtained from KTO Karatay University Drug and Non-Medical Device Research Ethics Committee (Decision Date: 09.05.2024, Decision No: 2024/015).

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