Women's Perception and Experiences of Sexual Violence in Marital Relationships and Its Effect of Reproductive Health

Abstract

In this article we explore women's perceptions and experiences of sexual violence in marital relationships and its effects on reproductive health. We conducted a qualitative study composed of key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews on two low- to middle-income areas of Karachi, Pakistan. Results show sexual coercion and nonconsensual sex were common and not limited to abusive relationships. Difficulties in negotiating safe sex resulted in unwanted pregnancies, some leading to unsafe abortions. The women reported escalation of violence during pregnancy to be common. Social norms prevented disclosure of sexual violence leading to limited support or intervention or both. The link between women's social status, marital violence, and reproductive health is discussed.