article
Life histories, reproductive histories: rural South African women's narratives of fertility, reproductive health and illness
Journal of southern African studies • 27 (2) • Published In 2001 • Pages: 311-328
By: Harrison, Abigail, Montgomery, Elizabeth.
Abstract
Qualitative research in the field of reproductive health is important in elucidating an understanding of women's roles in both social and biological reproduction, and in gaining access to women's perception of their own health problems. In this study the authors examine rural Zulu women's perspectives on reproductive health and fertility as part of their life histories, and assessed knowledge of reproductive health and related practices. Findings indicate that, in spite of recent declines in fertility in South Africa, child bearing remains the princiiipal form of self-expression among older Zulu women, with fertility a necessary step toward achieving social status as a woman. This status, however, does not confer autonomy or power on women, but rather serves as a means of meeting social expectations (p. 311).
- HRAF PubDate
- 2005
- Region
- Africa
- Sub Region
- Southern Africa
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Medical Personnel
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- John Beierle ; 2004
- Field Date
- no date
- Coverage Date
- ca.1990s
- Coverage Place
- KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
- Notes
- Abigail Harrison and Elizabeth Montgomery
- Includes bibliographical references
- LCCN
- 75642679
- LCSH
- Zulu (African people)