The Determinants Of Female Autonomy And Influence On Fertility In Ibadan, Oyo State

Abstract

This study examines the various indicators of a woman‟s autonomy and fertility among women aged 15-49 years in Ibadan, Oyo state. The study conceptualized autonomy in decision making as either decision made by the woman alone or jointly with her husband. Quantitative data was generated from 500 respondents of varying socioeconomic background using a multistage sampling technique and data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical techniques. The results show that decision making in the home was generally seen to be the prerogative of the men as husbands. Women had greater autonomy in decision-making concerning household expenses. Women with higher level of education (secondary tertiary) were more prone to delay age at marriage, have fewer numbers of children, discuss about family planning with their husband and use contraception, compared to women with lower levels of education and who were not working.