Exploring Differences in Fertility Based on Experience of Intimate Partner Violence in Afghanistan

Abstract

Background Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a primary manifestation of gender inequality in society and poses a significant obstacle to achieving global reproductive health goals due to its direct impact on women's access to healthcare and health outcomes. Despite the concerted efforts of global organizations, Afghanistan still experiences high levels of fertility. This paper aims to investigate differences in fertility based on the experience of violence and to answer the question of whether violence is a problem for fertility. Methods The data employed in this investigation were acquired from the 2015 Afghanistan Population and Health Survey. A discrete-time survival analysis model was employed to estimate the impact of violence on both probability and fertility patterns. Results The study findings indicate that women who have undergone IPV may have different reproductive outcomes compared to those who have not. Specifically, women with IPV experience may have slightly higher fertility rates and shorter birth intervals for certain birth orders. However, the differences between the two groups are generally small. Conclusions The study findings underscore the importance of policies and programs that tackle both intimate partner violence and reproductive health simultaneously. Addressing gender inequality and violence against women is crucial for improving reproductive health outcomes in Afghanistan. The outcomes of this study emphasize the necessity of integrating comprehensive and holistic approaches to reproductive health that recognize the complex interplay between violence and reproductive outcomes.