The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility

The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility

Validation and Reliability of the Reproductive Autonomy Scale

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Elham Jafari 1
Manouchehr Azkhosh 2
Parvin Jafari 2
1 M.Sc. Graduate in Counseling, Department of Counseling and Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling and Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
10.22038/ijogi.2026.84467.6283
Abstract
Introduction: Fertility is a key determinant of population changes. Since women do not always have equal autonomy in fertility-related decisions, assessing reproductive autonomy is important for fertility-related planning. This study was conducted with aim to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Reproductive Autonomy Scale.
Methods: This cross-sectional psychometric study included 168 married women aged 15–45 years residing in Tehran, Iran. Participants were selected from the selected health centers of Tehran using multistage cluster sampling. Content validity was assessed using the Content Validity Index (CVI). Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and Pearson’s correlation coefficient, respectively. Construct validity was examined by confirmatory factor analysis, and concurrent validity was assessed using the Marital Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Decision-Making Style Questionnaire.
Results: Concurrent validity showed strong correlations between the Reproductive Autonomy Scale subscales and the questionnaire scores of marital satisfaction and decision-making style. The test–retest reliability coefficients for the Decision-Making, Freedom from Coercion, and Communication subscales were 0.784, 0.724, and 0.887, respectively.
Conclusion: The Reproductive Autonomy Scale demonstrated acceptable face, content, construct, and concurrent validity, as well as satisfactory internal consistency and test–retest reliability.
Keywords
Fertility
Reliability
Reproductive Autonomy
Validity
Women
Subjects
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The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility
Volume 29, Issue 2
April 2026
Pages 51-68