In the years subsequent to the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo, program planners and researchers have begun to fully recognize the importance for reproductive and sexual health of power dynamics within the sexual relationships of men and women. The AIDS epidemic, in particular, has accelerated this trend as it has starkly demonstrated the potential health consequences of gender-based power imbalances. Numerous efforts that incorporate recognition of power dynamics into service delivery, education, and research have been implemented over the last several years. Enough programmatic interventions and research have now been carried out that some general lessons can be extracted and their implications for future efforts considered.
This study has three objectives: (1) to review what has been learned to date about the role of power relations in sexual relationships in determining reproductive and sexual health outcomes (2) to draw lessons from clinic and community based interventions that address power in sexual relationships about the most effective ways to improve outcomes, and (3) to highlight gaps in knowledge and priority areas for future research. The study focuses on research and interventions carried out in developing countries with occasional examples from the developed world. The presentation also summarizes the observations of two discussants to the findings and recommendations of the study.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to describe the ways in which the balance of power in sexual relationships affects a range of reproductive health outcomes. They will also be able to identify specific areas for future interventions and research.
Keywords: Gender, Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I wrote the paper I am proposing to present as a consultant for the Population Council. Some of the
intervention research reviewed in the paper was conducted by the Population Council.