Infertile Jordanian Women’s Self-Perception About Societal Violence: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Background

Infertility affects one in six couples globally and is compounded by stigma and violence, particularly for women, in Jordan’s culture. While existing research has illuminated societal pressures faced by infertile women, there is, yet no comprehensive understanding of the violence they encounter in their daily lives.

Objective

This Interpretative Phenomenological study seeks to unravel the experiences of infertile women regarding societal violence in Jordan. By focusing on different types of community violence - physical, psychological, and emotional - The study aims to provide nuanced insights into the challenges these women confront. It also endeavors to identify contributing factors, including societal attitudes, cultural beliefs, and individual encounters, while informing policy and practice to mitigate this issue.

Methods

Employing a qualitative approach, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled infertile women. Thematic analysis was utilized to uncover recurring patterns and themes, facilitating a comprehensive exploration of their experiences.

Results

Five main themes were identified: How the surrounding people view me as an infertile woman; I am suffocated by their questions; they interfere in the smallest details; I got burned and turned to ashes, and I have no right to complain; The problem of childbearing and the treatment plan is a matter for me and my husband only; and who supports me and what do I want from those around me?

Implications

This study’s implications are significant for policy and practice. By foregrounding the prevalent violence faced by infertile women, it underscores the urgency of interventions. Raising awareness, providing education, and extending support can counteract societal stigma and violence. Creating a more compassionate societal fabric can ensure a safer, more inclusive environment for these women.

Keywords:

• infertile women
• community violence
• societal stigma
• qualitative study
• Jordan
• cultural norms
• psychological abuse
• physical violence
• emotional trauma

Ethical Approval

Ethical approval was received by the Institutional Review Boards of Emory University (MOD002-STUDY00003211) and Jordan University of Science and Technology (Ref: 6/141/2021).

Disclosure

The authors declare no competing interests in this work.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI), South Africa.