KNOWLEDGE OF FEMALE ADOLESCENTS ABOUT REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH IN SOUTH-WESTERN REGION OF BANGLADESH

Abstract

This study assesses the level of knowledge on reproductive health (RH) of female adolescents and to identify the determinants of their know-how about RH in south-western Bangladesh. One hundred and sixteen female adolescents were selected randomly through household listing from two areas of Khulna and Bagerhat Districts, Boyra and Palerhat, respectively. A pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule, containing three modules on socio-demographic, economic and knowledge of reproductive health, was used. Findings indicate that the participants, with an average 16 years of age and 10 years of schooling, were mostly unmarried. Yet, they have shown extensive knowledge about reproductive health issues, including puberty, safe sex, contraceptives, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and gendered dimensions. However, their level of knowledge about reproductive health varies with their age, year of schooling, living arrangement as well as residence. Surprisingly, religion and marital status were found not associated with their knowledge. In contrast, having an elder sister with secondary or higher education was positively associated with participants’ knowledge about reproductive health. In addition, parental education and income also had a positive influence on participants’ knowledge. In general, RH knowledge among female adolescents from rural areas and from low income families were found low compared to the urbanites with relatively well-off families. Therefore, we strongly suggest to address as well as to integrate reproductive health education as well as demands of the adolescents, especially, female, into national policies.