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  • Title: [Notes on some reproductive self-determination possibilities in Latin America].
    Author: Figueroa Perea JG.
    Journal: Perf Latinoam; 1995 Jun; 4(6):121-47. PubMed ID: 12290737.
    Abstract:
    Some current directions of action and research concerning women's reproductive rights in Latin America are examined, with particular emphasis on the institutional context created by the Catholic Church, which has exhibited little flexibility in regard to the processes of reproductive self-determination. In the past 15 years, the concepts of health and reproductive rights have transformed representations and social practices related to reproduction. The work begins by analyzing several terms that preceded health and reproductive rights, attempting to demonstrate how they have helped perpetuate the subordination of women. The terms birth control, family planning, responsible parenthood, and maternal and child health have reflected contemporary social practices, playing a role in establishing reproductive norms and standards of care. The questioning by women's groups of the activities of family planning organizations is examined in this light. The doctrines of the Catholic Church pertaining to reproductive self-determination, and some progressive alternatives to official doctrine from within or outside the Church, are next analyzed. The work of groups of Catholics in Brazil and elsewhere who are struggling to reconcile Church teachings with alternative visions of autonomy and human rights in the reproductive sphere are described. Current research is described on attitudes of Catholic women in different contexts who question the relevance of Church teachings on reproduction, contraception, and abortion to their problems of daily life.
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