The effect of feminist-perspective reproductive biology education on body image and reproductive self-agency in women of reproductive age Mega Ayu Permatasari, Pasupaleti Visva Rao, Ratih Affandi, Noprita Herari, E. Nugrahaeni P.S, Kinkin Yuliaty Subarsa Putri, Dini Safitri
1,4,5,6,7 [Universitas Negeri Jakarta / Communication Science], [Jakarta], [Indonesia]
2 [Reva University / Biotechnology], [Karnataka], [India]
3 [Universitas Pasundan / Communication], [Bandung], [Indonesia]
Abstract
Contemporary cellular biology has overturned the characterisation of the oocyte as a passive recipient in fertilisation. Evidence demonstrates that the egg cell actively produces chemoattractant signals to select sperm, deploys polyspermy-blocking mechanisms, and contributes maternal determinants governing early embryogenesis. Despite this, mainstream reproductive biology education continues to frame the oocyte as inert - a narrative with potential psychosocial consequences for women^s self-perception. This study examines whether a feminist-perspective reproductive biology educational intervention produces measurable improvements in reproductive body image and reproductive self-agency among women of reproductive age. A pre-experimental one-group pre-post test design was employed with a purposive sample of women aged 18-45 years (n = 51-60). Participants completed 60 minutes sessions covering the oocyte^s active biological roles, feminist critiques of conventional reproductive narratives, and reflective exercises connecting scientific knowledge to bodily self-perception. Outcomes were assessed using two validated instruments: the Reproductive Body Image Scale (RBIS) and the Female Reproductive Self-Agency Scale (FRSAS). Pre- and post-intervention scores were compared using paired-sample t-tests. Results indicate statistically significant increases in both reproductive body image and self-agency following the intervention, suggesting that gender-equitable science framing positively influences women^s reproductive self-perception. Implications for science education curriculum design and gender-responsive health policy are discussed.
Keywords: Feminist Perspective Biology- Body Image- Reproductive Self Agency- Women Reproductive
