Influences Of Husbands’ Fertility Preferences On Young Couples’ Reproductive Behavior In Kamukunji Sub-county, Nairobi County

Abstract

Fertility preferences, in the Kenyan context, is an issue of great importance because of the high fertility rates in the country. Several studies have revealed that the preferences of fertility are essential in determining the society’s fertility levels because the fertility intentions of the future have a high likelihood of falling under the effect of currently observed fertility inclinations. The measurement of preferences fertility is often defined in terms of desire for additional children and the difference between the actual and ideal number of children. Understanding the fertility intentions and how they predict fertility behavior is key for population policy and implementation of family planning programmes. The objective of this cross-sectional study of the influences of husband’s fertility preferences on couples’ reproductive behavior in Kamukunji Sub-County in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study specifically set out to: identify the socio-economic influences of husbands’ fertility preferences on couples’ reproductive behavior and establish the effects of husbands’ fertility preferences on couples’ reproductive behavior among young married couples in Kamukunji Sub-County. Qualitative approach was used in collecting and analyzing data while Social Exchange Theory and Social Learning Theory guided the inquiry. Respondents for the semi-structured interviews, 40 in number, were selected through purposive sampling. Focus group discussants were selected through convenience sampling while the key informants were purposively selected. Qualitative data collected were coded and analyzed thematically in line with the study objectives and verbatim quotes used to project the voices of the participants. The study findings indicate that fertility preferences among husbands’ is influenced by many socio-economic factors operating within urban set-up including education, occupation, religion, place of residence, number of living children and preference for a male child. The effect of husbands’ fertility preference on couples’ reproductive behavior whether negative or positive are borne by wives. For instance, preventing parity births, consensus on fertility intentions, and use of family planning. The study concludes that fertility preference of married men is largely influenced by socio-economic and socio-cultural factors. The study recommends that the government through its line ministries should pay close attention in promotion and inclusion of men in uptake and use of contraceptives. This should be focused on the various factors such as region of residence, age, education levels, among others in order to meet the needs of men in the various parts of the county and country. Additionally, policies that aim at integrating population into development should be designed in a manner that they foster socio-economic development in the counties and hence minimize the differences that exists in terms of fertility preferences Keywords: Fertility preferences, couples, influence, reproductive behavior,