Fertility Desires and Behaviours Among Basotho Couples: A Comparative Analysis of Men and Women

Abstract

Although childbearing and reproduction involve both partners in a relationship, it is often perceived as solely the woman’s responsibility. Research in Lesotho has largely focused on women’s access to contraceptives, neglecting the dynamics of joint decision-making within couples. This study aimed to examine the similarities and differences in fertility desires between Basotho men and women in relationships, and whether their contraceptive behaviour aligns with these desires. Using the 2023-24 Lesotho Demographic and Health survey we conducted both descriptive statistics and employed the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) to evaluate dyadic effects. The descriptive statistics identified that there is often inconsistency between fertility desires and contraceptive behaviour. Results from the logistic Generalized Structural Equation Model (logit GSEM) showed that women’s fertility desires significantly influence both their own and their partners’ contraceptive use within couples. Conversely, men’s fertility desires were insignificant in determining contraceptive use for either partner. Additionally, working women were more likely to use contraceptives than their unemployed counterparts. Although most women were found to be more educated than their partners, the majority remained unemployed and financially dependent. The development of initiatives that would enhance women’s employment opportunities and address gender disparities in the labour market is recommended. Establishing child social grant programs could further support women and families, particularly given the financial constraints faced by unemployed women in Lesotho