Vietnamese women have long been challenged with various sexual and reproductive health problems, ranging from abortion, to RTIs and sexual coercion. These issues were increasingly addressed through reproductive health frameworks. Despite this, there remains a lack of in-depth information on attitudes and practices regarding sex and sexuality of Vietnamese women today. This study in-part responds to the knowledge gap by undertaking qualitative research on sexual attitudes and practices among rural married women in a Northern rural community, measured against broader social and cultural contexts. Twenty-five women and six men were interviewed; and four focus group discussions were conducted. The findings show that women generally believe that men are initiators in sexual relations, while women are passive. Some women believe that they have the right to say no to sex to their husbands, while others do not believe they have this right, or feel reluctant to refuse their husbands. Communication about sex and sexuality between husband and wife is also very limited. However, this paper also demonstrates that women are not totally passive in sexual relations. The women in this study use a range of strategies in their sexual life, and sometimes, “silence” is used as a form of agency in order to keep harmony and happiness in their family.

Author: Vu Song Ha, Consultation of Investment in Health Promotion

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