Problem: The most recent National Family Health Survey (NFHS) in India reveals that around 29% of women have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). Many also face reproductive coercion (RC), driven by social norms that prioritize early and frequent childbearing and a preference for sons. Nearly half of all pregnancies are unintended, and contraceptive discontinuation rates are high: 1 in 2 women using modern contraceptives discontinue within 12 months. Research indicates that women experiencing IPV or RC face a significantly higher risk of unintended pregnancy and contraceptive discontinuation due to compromised reproductive autonomy and restricted access to contraceptive methods.

Overview: Under the USAID funded project, Agency for All, the UCSD Center on Gender Equity and Health is supporting the adaptation of ARCHES for public and private family planning health systems in India.