Influence of Social and Cultural Norms on the Sexual and Reproductive Health of Young Couples in Incharoua, Droum rural district (Zinder, Niger)

Abstract This paper analyses the influence of social norms and cultural practices on the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of young couples in the village of Incharoua, in the rural commune of Droum. It aims to understand how these norms shape behaviours and the use of SRH services. Adopting a mixed methodological approach (quantitative and qualitative), the research is based on a survey of 76 couples (152 individuals), supplemented by interviews, observations, documentary research and a pre-survey. The results are presented in two parts: the first describes the socio-demographic characteristics of the couples and the factors explaining the use of traditional or modern SRH practices; the second highlights the strengths, weaknesses and local perceptions of SRH. The analysis reveals that formal norms derived from modern structures, as well as traditional social norms, strongly influence the SRH of young couples. This influence can be explained in particular by women's limited decision-making power within the household and by the attachment to cultural values passed down from generation to generation.