Sociodemographic predictors of women autonomy in urban Jabalpur: A cross-sectional study of Central India

Abstract Background: Empowerment is a process that allows someone to take charge, grow self-assured, raise awareness, improve mobility, and make decisions. The importance of women’s autonomy in healthcare decision-making has gained attention due to the Sustainable Development Goals’ aim to achieve gender equality. Objectives: The research aims to evaluate female participation in household and healthcare decision-making, explore factors influencing it, identify gaps, and implement educational interventions and capacity building for health workers. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study including 200 Indian women in urban Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, were surveyed for the study. The quantitate data on study variables and respondents were selected by multistage random sampling method. The female head of the family completed a semi-structured questionnaire to provide information. Results: The study investigates factors affecting women’s participation in household decision-making in Central India. It found that younger and mid-age women (30–50 years) are more progressive and participative in decision-making compared to older women. Older women have greater autonomy in healthcare decision-making due to their life experiences and past decisions. Household income is another factor associated with women’s autonomy in healthcare decision-making. Conclusion: A comprehensive analysis of sociodemographic and decision-making variables, we uncovered a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping women’s autonomy, only a meager contribution from women in decision-making. Women in poor households face greater challenges in exercising decision-making power, often due to limited education and negotiating skills. However, we feel further research is needed to understand these dynamics and inform targeted interventions.