Social norms, culture, and religious factors influencing sexual and reproductive health in low -middle-income countries: A scoping review protocol

Objective The objective of this scoping review will be to identify and map various perspectives on social norms, culture, and religious factors, influencing sexual and reproductive health in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Introduction Good sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters related to the reproductive systems. Key components of SRH include: access to accurate information, understanding unprotected sex risks, healthcare access, and a supportive environment. Various social norms, culture, and religion contributes to gender inequality, significantly influencing sexual knowledge and practices, among reproductive age groups thus impacting their health. Inclusion criteria This review will include all studies on social, cultural, and religious factors influencing sexual and reproductive health in LMICs. Participants will include individuals aged 12–49 years, irrespective of gender and settings. Methods The proposed review will follow the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. Databases to be searched will include PubMed (Ovid), Scopus, PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), CINAHL(EBSCO), Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, and Google Scholar (first 10 pages of the search). We will also search for grey literature and screen reference lists of relevant reviews. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts, followed by full-text screening. Data will be extracted using a predefined form. The findings will be descriptively presented with supporting tables and diagrams, accompanied by a narrative summary.