Women’s Reproductive Autonomy and the Ethics of Baby Making: The Nigerian Case Study

Abstract

This study originates from a larger study carried out on the autonomy and reproductive rights of married Ikwerre women of Rivers State, Nigeria. It examined the use of women for the sole purposes of making babies by couples who are unable to produce children naturally. The study explored a purposive qualitative research method. Data collection was from December 2014 to March, 2015. Thirty four (34) IDIs (in-depth interviews) and six FGDs (focus group discussions) were conducted with married Ikwerre women between the ages of 22 and 60 years with various educational backgrounds, who are either in monogamous or polygynous marriage. Data were analyzed thematically. Questions on understanding of autonomy, reasons for getting married, choice of marriage, effect of marriage, and educational qualifications were asked. Results showed that some women are married off for the sole purpose of making babies for couples who cannot have biological children. These baby making wives are often very unhappy because of the status they are made to assume after having children for these couples. A few are happy, because they see being married for whatever reason as better than being single. Adequate laws should be put in place to regulate ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) in Nigeria. This will help eliminate the exploitation of women for baby making.