The health consequences of child marriage among rural women: Evidence from Igbo-Eze North, South-east Nigeria
Child marriage has emerged as a significant social issue due to its profound health consequences, particularly within rural communities. This study aims to investigate the health consequences associated with child marriage among rural women. Employing a phenomenological approach, this qualitative study collected information from women with firsthand experiences in the communities of Etteh and Enugu Ezike, both situated in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State. Data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted with 20 women selected through purposeful sampling. The sample encompassed married women aged 18 – 45 years, with a specific focus on those married before the age of 18. The findings revealed a significant association between child marriage and adverse physical health outcomes, including heightened rates of maternal mortality, inadequate prenatal care, and increased vulnerability to infectious diseases. Moreover, mental health assessments indicated a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder among women who experienced child marriage. Reproductive health implications were also observed, with a higher incidence of obstetric complications and adverse birth outcomes among this cohort. This study sheds light on the intricate web of health consequences associated with child marriage among women in Nigerian rural communities. The findings underscore the urgency for social work interventions that address the unique challenges faced by young girls in rural communities. Recognizing the long-term repercussions of child marriage is essential for informing evidence-based strategies aimed at improving the health and well-being of affected women and promoting sustainable development in the region.
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