WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT AND MATERNAL HEALTH: SOCIO-CULTURAL BARRIERS TO NUTRITION IN PUNJAB

Abstract

Background: Women's empowerment significantly influences maternal nutrition, yet cultural norms often constrain women's agency in developing countries. 

Objective: This study examines how women's decision-making power and socio-cultural factors affect maternal health outcomes in Punjab, Pakistan. 

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 600 mothers aged 18-40 with children under five years was conducted in rural and urban areas of Faisalabad, Multan, and Rawalpindi. Data collection combined structured interviews and focus groups. Maternal health status measured through anthropometry served as the outcome variable, with predictors including education, family size, autonomy, and cultural practices. 

Results: Bivariate analyses revealed that higher decision-making authority strongly associates with better health outcomes (χ² = 40.19, p < 0.001). Only 11.1% of low-autonomy mothers achieved high health status versus 29.6% of high-autonomy mothers. Cultural barriers including gender bias, food taboos during pregnancy, and large families remain pervasive. 

Conclusion: Improving maternal nutrition in Pakistan requires integrated approaches enhancing women's education and autonomy while addressing restrictive socio-cultural norms.