Early Marriage, Gender Norms, and Reproductive Health Outcomes: A Study of Meranaws in Marawi City, Southern Philippines
Shirikit Bashier Isra1, Ashley A. Bangcola2Background: Early marriage remains prevalent in communities with strong cultural traditions, such as the Meranaw in Marawi City, Philippines. Understanding its effects on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is essential for improving health outcomes and addressing gender inequality. Objectives: This study aims to explore the impact of early marriage on SRH outcomes among Meranaw women, focusing on how empowerment, gender norms, and marital relations intersect with reproductive health. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive-correlational design was employed to examine SRH outcomes among Meranaw young. Descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions and measures of central tendency, were used to summarize respondents’ characteristics. Pearson’s correlation coefficient tested the relationships between the independent variables and SRH outcomes, while weighted means calculated average responses, considering the relative importance of various factors. Results: Early marriage was found to be associated with lower utilization of birth control and maternal healthcare services. Empowerment levels were lower among women married at an early age, and traditional gender norms contributed to limited autonomy in reproductive health decisions. Conclusion: Early marriage among Meranaw women in Marawi City negatively impacts SRH outcomes, exacerbating health risks and perpetuating gender inequality. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive education, policy interventions, and empowerment programs to shift cultural attitudes towards early marriage and promote better SRH outcomes.