Socio-cultural influences on family planning choice: A study of women in selected community areas of purba bardhaman,West Bengal

Abstract

Reproductive choices among women are significantly influenced by socio-cultural factors that shape attitudes, beliefs, decision-making autonomy, and access to reproductive healthcare services. In India, especially in semi-urban and rural areas such as Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal, traditional norms, family structures, religious beliefs, educational status, economic dependence, and gender expectations strongly determine women’s reproductive behavior. This article explores socio-cultural influences on reproductive choices among women in selected community areas of Purba Bardhaman. The study examines factors affecting family planning decisions, contraceptive use, fertility preferences, and access to reproductive health services. The findings reveal that educational attainment, spousal communication, family pressure, religious beliefs, and economic dependency significantly influence reproductive decision-making. The article highlights the need for culturally sensitive reproductive health interventions, community education, and empowerment-based strategies to enhance women’s autonomy