The pressure to have baby boys can harm African mothers' health, according to a recent report by The Associated Press. Gloria Masanka, a mother of two daughters in Kinshasa, Congo, shared her experience of societal expectations and the toll it takes on women's well-being.
Health Risks from Gender Preference
In many African cultures, having a male child is highly valued, leading to immense pressure on women to produce sons. This can result in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, as well as physical harm from repeated pregnancies or unsafe practices to influence the baby's sex.
Impact on Mothers
Women like Masanka face stigma and sometimes abandonment if they fail to bear sons. The stress can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth, increasing maternal mortality risks. Health experts urge for education and policy changes to address this issue.
The report highlights the need for community awareness and support for gender equality to protect mothers' health.
