An exploration of clients agency regarding their own reproductive health while living with intimate partner violence

ENGLISH SUMMARY ENGLISH SUMMARY : Background: The overall objective of this study is to explore the use of agency by women when making reproductive health choices within the context of intimate partner violence. This qualitative study was based on a feminist phenomenological method. Although the feminist perspective has many dimensions when challenging injustices to women and giving women a voice, in this study, the focus is on the use of agency. Agency is the ability to practice self-rule for oneself as a woman, to have self-directedness and be recognized as part of society, in decision making concerning personal choices. It includes the capability to exercise autonomy while experiencing coercion. The study was conducted at Macassar CHC. Methods: Ten women were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were conducted in English and Afrikaans. All the women in the study had experienced intimate partner violence. Although the women are of different ethnic and religious backgrounds, they shared similar experiences and responses to violence, specifically when making reproductive health choices. Results: The lack of autonomy and agency challenges women’s ability to make reproductive health choices. Intimate partner violence further challenges women’s agency in a society where women have a lower status than men. Conclusion: Women in Macassar living with intimate partner violence are at risk of unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and HIV. This is mainly due to the lack of autonomy and agency.