DOES MALE OUT-MIGRATION AND HOUSEHOLD STRUCTURE MATTER IN MATERNAL HELATH SERVICES UTILIZATION IN INDIA?

Male out-migration leads to modification in the structure of family life and also transforms women’s social and economic position. A significant effect of migration on the family is the conjugal separation. The need for assistance with child care also may motivate a restructuring of household composition. Data Source: National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-3 (2005-2006). Objective: The broad objective of the study is to understand the household structure of left behind women and use of maternal health services in the place of origin due to male out-migration. Findings: male out-migration in non-nuclear households has better in use of maternal health services compared to those in nuclear households. This may be explained on the basis of the fact that the economic status of women in non-nuclear households is better than their counterparts. May be due to low standard of living, the affordability for health care among women in nuclear households is overshadowed.