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The Question of Autonomy in Maternal Health in Africa: A Rights-Based Consideration.
- Source :
- Journal of Bioethical Inquiry; Jun2015, Vol. 12 Issue 2, p283-293, 11p
- Publication Year :
- 2015
-
Abstract
- Maternal mortality is still very high in Africa, despite progress in control efforts at the global level. One elemental link is the question of autonomy in maternal health, especially at the household level where intrinsic human rights are undermined. A rights-based consideration in bioethics is an approach that holds the centrality of the human person, with a compelling reference to the fundamental human rights of every person. A philosophical and sociological engagement of gender and the notion of autonomy within the household reveals some fundamental rights-based perplexities for bioethical considerations in maternal health. The right to self-determination is undermined, and therefore women's dignity, freedom and autonomy, capacities, and choices are easily defiled. This study applies a rights-based approach to maternal health and demonstrates how rights concerns are associated with negative outcomes in maternal health in Africa. The discussion is situated at the household level, which is the starting point in health care. The paper submits that beyond legal and political rights within the context of the state, rights-based issues manifest at the household level. Many of those rights issues, especially relating to women's autonomy, are detrimental to maternal health in Africa. Therefore, a rights-based approach in the social construction of maternal health realities will contribute to alleviating the burden of maternal mortality in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- ETHICAL decision making
CULTURE
DISCRIMINATION (Sociology)
HEALTH
HEALTH attitudes
HEALTH services accessibility
HELP-seeking behavior
HUMAN rights
MATERNAL health services
MATERNAL mortality
LEGAL status of patients
PRENATAL care
SELF-efficacy
WOMEN'S health
INFORMATION resources
SOCIAL support
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 11767529
- Volume :
- 12
- Issue :
- 2
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Journal of Bioethical Inquiry
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 102957126
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s11673-015-9607-y