Culture, Identity and Reproductive Failure in Zimbabwe

This article describes findings from a study of reproductive failure conducted in Zimbabwe. It examines the perspectives of men and women who believed they were potential reproductive failures by not having the socially expected numbers and types of children. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used to explore the meanings of reproductive failure and their links to local beliefs and culture, sexual behaviour and gender identities, and HIV prevention. Among study participants, a preoccupation with conception undermined the adoption of what are currently regarded as safer sexual behaviours. In seeking to overcome what was seen as reproductive failure, men, and women to a lesser extent, engage in unprotected sex with multiple concurrent and serial partners. Such behaviours are given meaning by long-held local beliefs concerning the importance of childbearing for individuals and for the wider community. These beliefs need to be taken seriously by future programmes and interventions to promote sexual and reproductive health.