The economics of health and agency: analysing the impact of women's economic empowerment on reproductive health outcomes in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study used a cross-sectional quantitative survey design. Two randomly selected Local Government Areas (LGA) are Egbeda and Ibadan North East. The study population was women of reproductive age. Amartya Kumar Sen’s Capability Approach provided the framework. A five stage sampling technique was adopted for the selection of these women. Utilising a structured questionnaire administered to 233 women across Oyo State, the research explores the types of reproductive health services accessed, perceived barriers, and the relationship between economic autonomy and ealth outcomes. Findings reveal that maternal care (88.8%), delivery services (82.0%), postnatal care (81.5%), and family planning (79.8%) are the most commonly accessed services, indicating strong engagement with maternal and preventive health care. Despite positive perceptions of access, particularly regarding confidentiality (mean = 3.55) and affordability (mean = 3.37) some gaps persist, especially in service availability during convenient hours (mean = 3.07) and regular health information dissemination (mean = 2.93). Women reported high levels of economic empowerment, with strong agreement on heir ability to work or run businesses (mean = 3.55) and access to financial resources (mean = 3.60). A significant positive relationship was found between women’s economic empowerment and access to reproductive health services (r = .708, p < .001), especially in areas such as family planning and reproductive health education, which enhance productivity and business opportunities. Barriers to empowerment and health access were linked to cultural, social, policy, and financial factors. Respondents strongly supported strategies such as increased government funding (mean = 3.90), policy integration (mean = 3.88), and community engagement, particularly involving men and traditional leaders. The study concludes that strengthening the link between reproductive health and economic empowerment through policy reform, education, and inclusive community strategies is essential for advancing women’s wellbeing and economic growth in Oyo State. The government should prioritise the integration of reproductive health and women’s economic empowerment into national and state-level development policies.