Infertility in a Crowded Country: Hiding Reproduction in India

In Lucknow, the capital of India's most populous state, Muslim women in poverty face stigmas and colonial legacies related to sexual propriety and population growth, which impact their ability to cope with infertility. Holly Donahue Singh's book explores access to technology and treatments and how pop culture shapes reproductive paths, highlighting women's willingness to transgress social and religious boundaries for healing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2022
Publisher: Indiana University Press

In the bustling city of Lucknow, the capital of India's most populous state, a complex web of stigmas and colonial legacies surrounding sexual propriety and population growth intertwine, shaping the experiences of Muslim women, often grappling with the challenges of infertility. Within this context, Holly Donahue Singh delves into the intricate realm of infertility, shedding light on the access to technology and treatments, as well as the profound influence of pop culture on the reproductive choices of women and their supporters. Through a rich tapestry of interviews, observation, and personal reflections, Donahue Singh explores the intricate dynamics within local communities and infertility clinics, unearthing the ways in which women navigate the complexities of their reproductive journeys.

Drawing from a wealth of sources, including interviews with women seeking treatment, medical professionals, and community leaders, Donahue Singh unveils the profound impact of social and religious norms on women's reproductive choices. She reveals how women are willing to transcend these boundaries in their quest for healing, often seeking solace and support in unconventional spaces such as health camps, religious sites, and adoption agencies.

Infertility in a Crowded Country offers a captivating lens through which to examine a range of interconnected themes. It delves into the intricacies of family, kinship, and gender, exploring the ways in which reproductive technologies and global politics shape the lives of individuals and communities. Moreover, the book sheds light on the ideologies and social practices surrounding family creation, challenging prevailing notions and highlighting the diverse ways in which people navigate the complexities of building a family.

Through its rich narrative and thoughtful analysis, Infertility in a Crowded Country provides a valuable contribution to the field of reproductive health and social sciences. It offers a nuanced understanding of the experiences of Muslim women in India, shedding light on the complex interplay between cultural, social, and religious factors that shape their reproductive choices. By highlighting the resilience and creativity of women in the face of adversity, the book inspires a deeper dialogue about the importance of reproductive justice and the need to address the systemic inequalities that perpetuate infertility and other reproductive health challenges.

In conclusion, Infertility in a Crowded Country is a groundbreaking work that offers a profound exploration of the complexities surrounding infertility and its impact on Muslim women in India. Through a rich blend of personal narratives, empirical research, and analytical insights, Donahue Singh provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of reproductive health and social dynamics. This book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the intersection of culture, gender, and reproductive rights in a rapidly changing world.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253063878