RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL CONSTRUCTIONS OF SEXUALITY AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Sexuality is a biological, social and cultural phenomenon whose meanings are shaped by institutions, relationships and systems of social regulation. In Nigeria, religious beliefs, cultural expectations and gender relations influence understandings of premarital sex, marriage, fertility, contraception, abortion, sexual consent and reproductive responsibility. This review examines how these constructions affect sexual and reproductive health (SRH), using Social Norms Theory as its principal analytical lens. Evidence from Nigerian studies indicates that norms surrounding chastity, family honour, early marriage, fertility, partner authority and gendered responsibility can shape whether individuals disclose sexual activity, seek contraception, and negotiate safer sex or access SRH services. At the same time, religious and cultural values can have protective effects by encouraging fidelity, responsible parenthood, social responsibility and stable family relationships. The central argument is that religion and culture should not be treated as uniform or inherently harmful determinants of SRH. Their effects are mediated by social norms, gendered power, stigma, socioeconomic conditions, education, spousal communication and health-system practices. The review therefore advocates culturally responsive and gender-transformative interventions that engage religious and traditional institutions while protecting autonomy, informed choice and access to evidence based care. It further argues that sustainable improvement in SRH requires attention to the social environments in which reproductive decisions are made, rather than relying solely on the provision of commodities or information.