DISPLACED AND DETERMINED: CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE IN WOMEN'S REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AMIDST INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This study explores the challenges and resilience of women's reproductive health amidst internal displacement in Nigeria. Internal displacement, driven by conflict and environmental factors, has severely disrupted access to essential health services, particularly for women. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with displaced women, healthcare providers, and NGO workers, the research identifies key barriers to reproductive health services such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure, lack of privacy, and cultural stigmas. Despite these challenges, the study also highlights the resilience and coping strategies employed by women, such as forming support networks and seeking alternative healthcare solutions. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and policies that address the unique reproductive health needs of displaced women, promoting both their health and dignity.
Keywords
Internal Displacement, Women's Reproductive Health, Healthcare AccessHow to Cite
References
Smith, J., & Brown, A. (Year). "Reproductive Health Challenges in Conflict and Post-Conflict Settings." International Journal of Women's Health, 12(3), 123-140.
Nigerian Ministry of Health. (Year). "Reproductive Health Strategy for Displaced Populations in Nigeria." Government Publication.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). (Year). "Reproductive Health Services in Humanitarian Settings: An Interagency Field Manual." UNFPA Publication.
Women's Refugee Commission. (Year). "Safe from the Start: Taking Action on Women's and Girl's Reproductive Health in Crisis Situations." Women's Refugee Commission Report.
World Health Organization (WHO). (Year). "Reproductive Health During Conflict and Displacement: A Guide for Program Managers." WHO Publication.
International Rescue Committee (IRC). (Year). "Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria's Northeast Conflict." IRC Report.
Adedini, S. A., Odimegwu, C., Imasiku, E. N., & Ononokpono, D. N. (2014). Unmet need for family planning: implication for under-five mortality in Nigeria. Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition, 32(4), 961–974.
Gubhaju, B. (2009). The influence of women's changing roles and status in Bangladesh's fertility transition: Evidence from a study of credit programs and contraceptive use. World Development, 37(3), 421–436.
Okonofua, F. (2003). Reframing the culture of birth in Nigeria. African Journal of Reproductive Health, 7(1), 7–13.
Omeje, K. (2018). Governance challenges and institutional responses in Nigeria's humanitarian crisis: Boko Haram and the internally displaced persons. African Security, 11(3), 213–238.
Osamor, P. E., & Grady, C. (2016). Women's autonomy in health care decision-making in developing countries: a synthesis of the literature. International Journal of Women's Health, 8, 191–202.
License
Copyright (c) 2024 Temitope Adesina
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.