Family Planning Decision-Making in a Polygynous Nepalese Family

Abstract

This chronological study describes decision making about contraceptive usage by a polygynous family in Nepal. Open-ended interviews with the husband, separate structured interviews with each of three wives, discussions with officials at a laparoscopic sterilization camp, reports from family planning fieldworkers, the author's field notes, and a follow-up report a year later are the basis of the case description. The social reasons for polygyny, the role of the husband and wives in decision making, and the value of children are discussed in terms of the national family planning programs.