This study explored the association of sexual autonomy with neonatal, infant, and child mortality. We analyzed data from five countries (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda) to examine whether women who can refuse sex or request condom use have lower chances of experiencing the death of a newborn, infant, or child under five.

The findings show that women who had more sexual autonomy had significantly lower child mortality rates. Additionally, receiving antenatal care and using contraceptives further reduced child deaths. The study highlights the importance of empowering women with knowledge and control over their sexual and reproductive health to improve child survival in the region.