Reproductive Health Practices and the Sociology of Population

This panel explores the intersection of the sociology of population and contemporary reproductive health practices. Global demographic shifts reveal a profound polarization: low-fertility regimes in developed nations face structural contraction, while many developing nations continue to navigate uneven access to reproductive care (Gietel-Basten et al., 2021). By evaluating reproductive trajectories as embedded social biographies rather than isolated numbers, this session seeks to bridge micro-level bodily experiences with macro-level demographic patterns. We invite papers addressing the following (but not limited to) thematic streams:
Theme 1: Fertility Intentions and Narratives of the Future
Papers under this theme shall analyze how modern socioeconomic realities and subjective uncertainties shape childbearing goals in low-fertility settings. We welcome empirical research exploring how specific reproductive health conditions alter or hinder personal family ideals (Guzzo, 2026).
Theme 2: Autonomy, Structural Barriers, and Contraceptive Behaviors
Papers under this theme shall explore the social determinants of family planning within developing nations. Papers should investigate how educational attainment, deeply ingrained patriarchal norms, and modern media exposure intersect to dictate reproductive agency (Yadav & Khiamniungan, 2024).
Theme 3: Overlooked Inequities in Global Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
Papers under this theme shall center on systemic disparities along the reproductive continuum. We welcome papers critiquing global health governance, the uneven commercial scaling of assisted reproductive technologies, and structural policy gaps regarding overlooked issues like infertility, stigmatized reproductive healthcare, and maternal morbidity across varying economic landscapes (Jennifer et al. 2011).