Women’s Decision-Making Autonomy and Free and Informed Consent in Accessing Reproductive Health Care in Community Settings: A Qualitative Study in the N’djili Health Zone (Kinshasa City, Democratic Republic of the Congo)

Women’s Decision-Making Autonomy and Free and Informed Consent in Accessing Reproductive Health Care in Community Settings: A Qualitative Study in the N’djili Health Zone (Kinshasa City, Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Bertine Mbongopasi Ekeni, Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua, Bernard Ntoto Nkunzi, Félicien Mukandu Basua Babintu
Mechanisms and Machine Science, 14 November 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study is to identify factors influencing the improvement of decision-making autonomy and free, informed consent among women in the N’djili Health Zone. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from September 25 to October 26, 2022. Results revealed that participants faced challenges in exercising autonomy over reproductive health decisions, impacting their capacity to give informed consent. Additionally, a lack of information and awareness about reproductive health rights and options perpetuates existing inequalities. Developing educational and awareness programs that inform women of their rights, while involving the community and health professionals, are crucial to fostering sustainable change.