Use of the Proximate Determinants of Fertility as a Framework for Examining the Relationship Between Armed Conflict and Fertility in Myanmar

Anne Schuster , University of Southampton
Andrew Hinde, University of Southampton
Sabu S. Padmadas, University of Southampton

Background: Conflict appears to affect fertility differently, depending on the situation. New 2015-16 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from Myanmar provide an opportunity to explore the effects of prolonged conflict and civil unrest on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and fertility. Methods: We linked DHS and the Armed Conflict Event and Location Data (ACLED) using geospatial variables before testing relationships between residence in a conflict area and SRH indicators using chi-squared and t-tests. Results: Women living in conflict areas had more children (95% CI: -0.559 - -0.336). They were more likely to be married, but less likely to use family planning. They were also less likely to live with their spouse or be sexually active. Conclusion: Preliminary analysis suggests that women living in conflict areas behave differently than those living in areas with no conflict. More robust analysis will help explain these differences and what may be causing them.

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 Presented in Session 93. Family Planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health in Conflict and Emergency Settings