Reproductive Health Education Programs Research Articles

Determinants of Unwanted Pregnancy in Indonesia in 2022

Unwanted pregnancy in teenagers is the impact of deviant sexual behavior. Adolescents with Unwanted pregnancy are faced with various problems, especially health problems for mothers and babies, and socio-economic problems. This research aims to examine the determinants of untimely pregnancy in adolescents in North Konawe Regency. The research design uses a Cross Sectional Study conducted in September 2022-February 2023 in three randomly selected sub-districts of North Konawe Regency. A total of 80 teenage girls aged 14-19 years who experienced untimely pregnancy were sampled. The research uses a structured questionnaire technique guided by researchers which has been previously tested and analyzed using the Fisher Exact test. The results of the bivariate analysis showed that the variables were Knowledge (p=0.568>0.05), Attitude (p=0.002<0.05), Action (p=0.74>0.05), Permissive Parenting Pattern (p=0.109>0.05), Peer Pressure Peers (p=0.592>0.05), Use of Technology (p=0.034<0.05) and Religiosity (p=0.001<0.05). The results of this research show that there is a relationship between Attitude, Use of Technology and Religiosity, and there is no relationship between Knowledge, Action, Permissive Parenting Patterns and Peer Pressure with Unwanted Pregnancy in teenagers in the North Konawe Regency Area. Thus, the Reproductive Health Education program for Adolescents in formal education involves education stakeholders including the School Committee which is a reference material and a program to reduce the number of unwanted pregnancy in adolescents in the North Konawe Regency area.

Using the consolidated framework for implementation research to identify challenges and opportunities for implementing a reproductive health education program into sickle cell disease care.

As survival rates for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) increase, calls have been made to improve their reproductive healthcare and outcomes. The research team created a web-based program entitled Fertility edUcaTion to Understand ReproductivE health in Sickle cell disease (FUTURES). The study aim was to use the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) during pre-implementation to identify challenges and opportunities from the individual to systems level of implementation to ultimately optimize the integration of FUTURES into clinical practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians, research team members, and adolescent and young adult (AYA) males with SCD and their caregivers who participated in pilot testing. Interviews (N = 31) were coded inductively and then mapped onto CFIR domains (i.e., outer setting, inner setting, characteristics of individuals, and intervention characteristics). Research team interviews indicated the lack of universal guidelines for reproductive care in this population and gaps in reproductive health knowledge as key reasons for developing FUTURES, also highlighting the importance of collaboration with community members during development. Clinicians reported intraorganizational communication as essential to implementing FUTURES and discussed challenges in addressing reproductive health due to competing priorities. Clinicians, AYAs, and caregivers reported positive views of FUTURES regarding length, engagement, accessibility, and content. Suggestions for the best setting and timing for implementation varied. Using CFIR during the pre-implementation phase highlighted challenges and opportunities regarding integrating this program into SCD care. These findings will inform adaptation and further testing of FUTURES to ensure effective implementation of this novel education program.

Structural Determinants of Tax Revenue in Zambia

Teenage pregnancy is one of the complex health and development problems facing the world. In Tanzania adolescent pregnancy has been identified as one of the reasons for girls dropping out of school. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of school based reproductive health education programmes on teenage pregnancy. The study adopted a cross-sectional explanatory design and was conducted in Mtwara Region, Tanzania covering four secondary schools. Respondents for the study were randomly selected. Data was collected using a pre-structured questionnaire, focus groups discussions and key informant interviews. A total of 156 individuals participated in the study. Findings from the study show that school based reproductive health education programmes were effective in terms of knowledge creation. Generally, the results show a significant (P≤ 0.001) difference in reproductive health education between intervention and non-interventions schools. In addition, significant differences were also observed between rural and urban non-intervention schools. It is therefore concluded that school based reproductive health education programmes are effective in knowledge creation among adolescent girls. Hence, it is recommended that a comprehensive school based reproductive health education programme (SBRHEP) be instituted in schools as a way of reducing teenage pregnancies and spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STI’s). However, for this to be more effective there is need for a standalone subject that only deals with reproductive health education rather than the status quo where it is offered under the biology subject. Keywords: School based Reproductive health education, Teenage pregnancy DOI : 10.7176/DCS/9-1-03

Husband's Support and Knowledge about Birth with Anxiety Facing Primigravida Birth

This study aims to investigate the relationship between husbands' support and knowledge regarding childbirth and the level of anxiety experienced by primigravida during the childbirth process. The research adopts a quantitative approach by analyzing data from 297 pregnant women who visited during the months of March-April 2023. The analytical method employed is Multiple Linear Regression Analysis using SPSS version 25. The research findings reveal a highly significant correlation between husbands' support and knowledge together with the anxiety levels experienced by primigravida. The implications of these findings provide further insight into the importance of the husband's role in providing support and knowledge to their partners during pregnancy and childbirth. Moreover, this research lays the groundwork for the development of interventions aimed at reducing the anxiety levels of primigravida through the enhancement of husbands' support and knowledge. Practical implications of this study include the development of reproductive health education programs that focus more on involving husbands in supporting the mental and emotional well-being of pregnant women.

Adolescents and reproductive health: Promoting healthy habits for reproductive well-being

Adolescence is a critical period of human development in which physical, psychosocial, cognitive, and emotional aspects develop rapidly, especially the reproductive system. Adolescents must be prepared to face reproductive maturation, so they need some information that can solve the changing of their body. Health education about reproductive health is very important to do as an effort to increase knowledge in dealing with puberty. The reproductive health education program for adolescence in facing puberty is one solution that can be done to increase student’s knowledge about reproductive health. This activity aims to increase adolescence knowledge about reproductive health system in adolescence. The community service program was completed by providing health education to 38 students in Banyuurip elementary school, Yogyakarta using games, giving materials, and conducting disscussions.
 Activities were evaluated by using pretest and post-test scores. There was a significant difference in the participants’ knowledge level before and after the reproductive health education. Previously, 52% of participants were in the less category, 42% of them was in sufficient category, and only 5% was in good category. After the reproductive health education was carried out, most of the students had good knowledge at 71%, 29% had sufficient knowledge, and no students had insufficient knowledge. In conclusion, reproductive health education is proven to be able to increase students' knowledge in dealing with puberty and care for reproductive organs.
 Keywords: Early adolescent, health education, reproductive health

Adolescents and reproductive health: Promoting healthy habits for reproductive well-being

Abstract. Adolescence is a critical period in humans in terms of physical, psychosocial, cognitive, and emotional development, especially for the reproductive system. Adolescents must be prepared to face reproductive maturation so they need some information to solve the change in their bodies. Conducting health education about reproductive health is very important as an effort to increase knowledge in dealing with puberty. The reproductive health education program for adolescents facing puberty is one solution that can be done to increase adolescents’ knowledge about reproductive health. This activity aims to increase adolescents’ knowledge about health reproductive in adolescence. The method used was a quasi-experiment research design with a group pretest and posttest approach. The population in this program was elementary school students in grades 4 and 5 at SDN Banyuurip Yogyakarta with a total sample of 38 students and a purposive sampling technique with inclusion criteria for children aged 10-14 years. Then, the data was analyzed by using a paired t-test. The results showed that there was a significant difference in students’ knowledge levels before and after the education was implemented. Before the reproductive health education, the respondents' knowledge level was mostly in the less category of 52%, sufficient category of 42%, and good category of 5%. After the reproductive health education was carried out, most of the students had good knowledge of 71%, sufficient knowledge of 29%, and no students had insufficient knowledge. Other results showed the pre-test mean scored 76.58 and post-test mean scored 83.16, median pretest and post-test scored 80 and 90. The results of the paired t-test obtained a p-value of 0.049 <0.005. Therefore, it can be concluded that there is an effect of reproductive health education on Banyuurip elementary school children of Yogyakarta. Conclusion: Reproductive health education is proven to increase students’ knowledge level in dealing with puberty and care for reproductive organs.

Examining the Awareness Levels, Usage Trends, and Influencing Factors of Emergency Contraceptives Among Women in Ussa Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Research Inquiry

Unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions remain significant global public health concerns, particularly in low-income countries. This research assessed the awareness, usage, and influencing factors of emergency contraceptives among women in the Ussa Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design where 384 questionnaires were distributed among sampled women of the reproductive age group (15-49 Years) in the study area. The findings indicate that while roughly half of the respondents were aware of emergency contraceptives, there is room for improvement in terms of disseminating information about their availability and usage. Regarding the usage of emergency contraception, a sizable portion of respondents (34.3%) said they had used it, although the majority (65.7%) had not. Furthermore, formal sensitization on emergency contraceptives is lacking for a large part of the population, just as a significant proportion of respondents have yet to use them. The study also found that factors influencing women's attitudes toward emergency contraceptives in Ussa Local Government Area include economic constraints, knowledge gaps, moral beliefs, partner dynamics, social stigma, and the fear of negative health implications. Based on the findings of the study, the recommendations include enhancing health promotions by Health agencies in Ussa Local Government, encouraging parent-child discussions on reproductive health, engaging traditional and religious leaders in family planning promotions, establishing young girls-friendly centers, and implementing comprehensive reproductive health education programs to empower women and reduce unintended pregnancies.

Information behaviour and factors influencing family planning knowledge of Myanmar ethnic migrants: a qualitative study

The accessibility to quality family planning (FP) information and counselling for Myanmar ethnic migrants in Thailand is questionable. Inadequate knowledge and lack of informed choice to practice FP methods increase the risk of unmet needs and method failures in FP, which could result in unplanned pregnancies and induced abortions. This research aimed to understand the FP information behaviour of a Pa-O migrant group, as well as structural and agency influencing factors on FP knowledge acquisition in Chiang Mai. A qualitative research based on the Information Behaviour model and Structuration theory was conducted using participant observation, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. A non-probability sampling method was employed, and 31 respondents participated in the study. The study found that actively seeking FP information from formal sources to make an informed decision was not common among Pa-O migrants. Instead, there was more reliance on informal information sources for choosing FP methods. Cultural norms related to sex, marriage, and age hinder migrant health information-seeking behaviour from formal and informal information sources. Pa-O migrants were alienated from structural resources, limiting the opportunities to promote FP knowledge. The personal and situational factors that significantly influenced the agency of migrants were lack of awareness of the right to information, language barriers, and perceived communication barriers with health staff. Limited resources of migrant-friendly health education programmes adversely affect migrant FP information behaviour. Reproductive health education programmes, including quality FP counselling services, should be accessible for marginalised migrants to ensure that their choices of FP are well-informed.

Evaluating a sexual and reproductive health education program in Mozambique: A mixed method study

Background: Early and inappropriate messages regarding sexuality and marriage taught during adolescent initiation rituals teachings in Mozambique are considered a determinant of high rates of early marriage, adolescent pregnancy, and maternal mortality. The Alert Community for a Prepared Hospital implementation research project in Natikiri, Nampula, Mozambique (2016-2020) identified adolescent initiation rituals counsellors and traditional authorities as pertinent agents to provide sexual and reproductive health education to adolescents during the initiation rituals. Objective: Develop, apply, evaluate, and disseminate a modern, transformative education tool, about sexual and reproductive health and rights, for counselors to use with adolescents during initiation rituals in Northern Mozambique. Methods: This is an exploratory descriptive and intervention study, using mixed method approaches. Findings: Results suggest, the education tool was well accepted by rituals counsellors, community leaders and the adolescents who attended the initiation rituals. It was shown to improve adolescent’s knowledge and lead to a positive behaviour change in sexual and reproductive health and rights. Conclusions: This intervention may be replicated at a national level with a low cost and significantly contribute to reducing adolescent pregnancy and early marriages and improving maternal and child health.

Adolescent Reproductive Health, Sex and Sexuality Education Program in a Science-Based Approach for Junior High School Learners

This study was undertaken to determine the stakeholders’ perspective on the adolescent reproductive health (ARH), sex, and sexuality education with the purpose of developing a program using a science-based approach to provide age and developmentally appropriate information for junior high school learners. A descriptive-developmental research design was used to determine any significant difference on the perception of the three groups of respondents on the adolescent reproductive health, sex, and sexuality education. Moreover, it determined the significant relationship between the students’ evaluation of the designed program as to their profile and awareness on ARH, sex, and sexuality education. The results revealed a significant difference on the perception of the respondents on the adolescent reproductive health, sex, and sexuality education. Findings also revealed significant relationship between the students’ profile, except religion and family orientation, and the effectiveness of the designed program. Therefore, the null hypothesis is partially upheld. Likewise, students’ awareness is significantly related to the perceived effectiveness of the program on adolescence reproductive health, sex, and sexuality education. The research suggests that the designed program must be aligned to the holistic development of adolescents ensuring that the information is comprehensible and relevant to their stage of life.

Optimizing the Role and Increasing Knowledge of Women of Childbearing Age About Contraception at the Pratama Lena Clinic, Purwakarta, Indonesia

As an effort to promote family planning, the government and health workers can provide comprehensive reproductive health services, including consultations about contraception, health checks, and contraceptive installation. Contraceptive education through counseling or lectures can be effective in increasing public understanding of various contraceptive methods, their benefits, and how to use them. Counseling or lectures enable the delivery of targeted and comprehensive information to individuals or groups. This study aimed to describe contraceptive education for women of childbearing age at the Pratama Lena Clinic, Purwakarta. This study is a descriptive observational research. The research location was at the Pratama Lena Clinic, Purwakarta, Indonesia. A total of 35 respondents took part in this study. The inclusion criteria for research subjects were women aged 19-35 years and willing to take part in this research. Most respondents were aged 26-30 years (65.7%), had a senior high school education (62.9%) and used injectable contraception (45.7%). Based on pre and post-assessment evaluations, there was an increase in knowledge about contraception by 50%. The increase in knowledge obtained by participants reflects that participants are able to accept the information received through health education. In conclusion, reproductive health and contraception education programs for women of childbearing age can increase knowledge and acceptance of contraceptive use.

Multiple high-risk fertility behaviours and children under five mortality survivors among ever-married women of reproductive age in Nigeria

BackgroundMultiple high-risk fertility behaviours (MHRFBs), including maternal age < 18 or > 34 years old, a birth order 4+, and birth spacing < 24 months, can directly or indirectly affect survival outcomes among under-five children. There is a dearth of available information and data about these two phenomena in Nigeria. Thus, this study evaluates the prevalence of MHRFBs and examines the association between MHRFBs and under-five mortality survival (U5M) outcomes among ever-married women of reproductive age in Nigeria.MethodsThis study used the recent secondary datasets from the Nigerian Demographic Health Surveys conducted in 2018, with a total sample size of 10,304 women of reproductive age. The outcome variable was MHRFBs. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the association between U5M and MHRFBs. Odds ratios with a p-value of less than 0.05 were considered significant.ResultsIt was found that among women who had MHRFBs, U5M was prevalent, particularly in young maternal age (< 18 years) and within short birth intervals (< 24 months). The adjusted odds ratio of the association between MHRFBs and U5M shows the experience of MHRFBs, in addition to other factors such as household wealth index, type of marriage, and sex of child, to be significant predictors for U5M. The odds were higher for U5M to occur among women who had experienced MHRFBs compared to those who have not had an experience of MHRFBs [aOR = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.02–2.17 ]. Similarly, the odds of U5M occurrence among women in polygamous marriages are higher compared to those in monogamous unions [aOR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.10–1.65]. While under-five children born in the richest households (wealth quintiles) are less likely to die compared to those born in the poorest households [aOR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.41–1.01].ConclusionThis study concludes that women in Nigeria who engaged in MHRFBs, particularly maternal ages < 18 years and short birth intervals (< 24 months), were more likely to experience U5M. Furthermore, children born to women who received post-natal care after delivery were more likely to survive U5M, as were children born to women with educated partners. We recommend strengthening educational opportunities and creating adaptive reproductive health education programs for ever-married women of reproductive age in Nigeria.

Knowledge, Practices, and Factors Affecting use of Condoms among the Youths in Lira District in HIV Prevention

As Uganda continues with the fight to end HIV epidemic by 2030, increasing condom use, especially in high-risk sexual encounters is one of the key strategies for reducing HIV transmission in Uganda. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, practices and factors affecting the utilization of condoms in the prevention of HIV among youths in Lira District. The study adopted a cross-sectional study design employing quantitative methods. A total of 189 respondents aged 15-35 years were recruited using a systematic random sampling technique. Data was obtained using an interviewer administered questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 2.0. Descriptive analysis was used to generate frequencies and percentages. The measure and significance of association were determined using a Chisquare test and odds ratios with a P-value set at 0.05 corresponding to 95% confidence interval. Linear logistic regression analysis was used to generate Crude and Adjusted odds ratios to determine the factors associated with condom use among youths in HIV prevention. The results showed that 48% had ever used condoms. Majority had knowledge of condom use. Over 120(63.49%) were very knowledgeable, 28(14.82%) moderately knowledgeable while the rest 41(21.69%) were less knowledgeable. Likewise, over three quarters 71(78.02%) reported good condom use practices. Marital status (p=0.002), education (p=0.012), relationship status (p=0.019), number of sexual partners (p=0.011) and knowledge about condom use (p=0.018) were significant predictors of condom use in HIV prevention. Only marital status was independently associated with condom use after adjusting for possible cofounders. Although the study reveals relatively good knowledge and condom use practices, there is still some level of less knowledge and poor practices which may be driving the high prevalence of not using condoms among youths in HIV prevention. Reproductive health education programs targeting married, less educated, and youths in more than a single relationship should be tightened so as to increase condom use knowledge and eventually utilization in the fight against HIV. Keywords: Condom, HIV epidemic and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

FUTURES: efficacy and acceptability of a novel reproductive health education program for adolescent males with sickle cell disease

FUTURES: efficacy and acceptability of a novel reproductive health education program for adolescent males with sickle cell disease

Study protocol for FUTURES: Testing a web-based reproductive health education program for adolescent and young adult males with sickle cell disease.

Individuals with sickle cell disease are increasingly surviving into adulthood, many of whom have interest in future biological parenthood. Reproductive health knowledge is low among adolescent and young adult males and their caregivers. Their understanding of these topics is needed to optimize their reproductive health outcomes. As such, through collaboration with a community advisory board (adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease and mothers of adolescent and young adult males with sickle cell disease) and digital design team, we developed a web-based sickle cell disease-focused reproductive health program entitled FUTURES to address these knowledge gaps. For phase I of this two phase feasibility and acceptability study, adolescent and young adult males and their caregivers will complete a pre- and post-program reproductive health knowledge and attitudes questionnaire to assess change in knowledge. In phase II, after learning about fertility testing as part of the FUTURES curriculum, adolescent and young adult male participants are given the option to pursue testing. The two-phase study aims to: 1) develop and test the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a reproductive health web-based educational program at increasing reproductive health knowledge in male adolescent and young adult males with sickle cell disease and their caregivers, and 2) assess feasibility of fertility testing. The long-term goal is to improve reproductive and psychosocial outcomes among adolescent and young adult males with sickle cell disease.

GAMBARAN PENGETAHUAN DAN SIKAP REMAJA PUTRI TENTANG PERNIKAHAN DINI DI DESA KARANGLO KECAMATAN KEREK

Child marriage or early marriage is considered unsafe and harmful practice because of insufficient readiness in various aspects. In 2008, the prevalence of child marriage was 14,67% and decreased by 11,21% in 2018. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and attitudes of female adolescents about early marriage at Karanglo Village, Kerek Sub-District. This study was descriptive research with a cross-sectional approach. The population of this study was 155 people. The samples were 115 female adolescents. The sampling technique used simple random sampling. Research variables are the knowledge and attitudes of female adolescents about early marriage. The data collection technique used questionnaires and the data were analyzed descriptively in the form of a frequency table.The results found that almost all female adolescents have good knowledge (81%). Most female adolescents have a positive attitude (55%). Most female adolescents have good knowledge with positive attitudes (52,3%). Almost half of the female adolescents have good knowledge with negative attitudes (28,8%).Female adolescents at Karanglo village have good knowledge about early marriage. However, some of them who have good knowledge only know the basic knowledge of early marriage and many still have negative attitudes. Therefore, it is necessary to increase education and counseling about early marriage, starting from understanding the factors that influence the incidence of early marriage to the impact it has. Active participation of the Adolescent Integrated Health Service (Posyandu Remaja) in the Adolescent Reproductive Health (KRR) Education Program is one of the efforts to prevent early marriage. The role of parents and families can be a priority in providing education to children regarding adolescent reproductive health.Keywords: Knowledge, Attitudes, Early Marriage

Midwife skill training as a family assistance team in preventing stunting in Tegal City

Stunting is still a health problem that requires attention because it affects physical growth and interferes with children's intelligence. Midwives are one of the personnel who provide oversight to ensure that nutrition and reproductive health education programs continue in the first 2 years of a baby's life, as well as monitoring the growth and development of the baby, which can help prevent stunting. The purpose of this community service is to increase the knowledge and skills of the family assistance team in collecting data and identifying the risk of stunting in Tegal city. The results of the activity show that training on data collection and identification of stunting risks using lecture and practice methods can increase midwives' knowledge in preventing stunting in Tegal City.

EFFECTIVENESS OF PEER EDUCATION IN DECREASING ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Background: Currently, the number of adolescents who have sexual intercourse is increasing and those make a higher risk of medical, psychological, and social implications. This behaviour is obviously leading to an increase the number of adolescence pregnancy. Sex education and counselling in many countries is delivered by health care professionals. In Indonesia, there are some sex education programs delivered by peer educators but their success in reducing adolescence pregnancy is unknown. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of a peer reproductive health education program in decreasing unplanned pregnancy in adolescents. Method: This integrative literature review was based on 3 databases which included Google Scholar, Pubmed and SAGE Journal. The inclusion criteria were articles published within the 2012–2018-year range, written in English, and the entire article was available and accessible. Only original articles with experimental design will be included. The quality of the selected articles was defined by using the Olsen-Baisch Scoring critical appraisal tool for integrative review. Result: Peer education builds social support and sense of belonging. The content is not only about unplanned pregnancy but also STI and HIV; responsible decision making; and body image identification. Peer educator can be the role model and have greater opportunities to counter the risk of adolescent pregnancy. Conclusion: Preventing adolescent pregnancy can save the next generation and improve adolescent health. Peer educator as part of health provider connect adolescents with their reproductive health needs. This approach would be beneficial strategy consider by health provider to protect adolescents. Keywords: adolescent, peer educator, pregnancy, sex education

Knowledge and Perception Regarding Sexual Health among College Students in Malappuram District, Kerala, India: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Good Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) encompasses complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters related to the reproductive system. Access to accurate information is crucial for maintaining SRH. Adequate knowledge and perception regarding sexual health play a vital role in reducing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), teenage or unwanted pregnancies, and empowering individuals against sexual violence. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge and perception of sexual health and associated factors among college students in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 540 students from January to April 2022 among 540 students attending MES Arts and Science College in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala, India. A semistructured questionnaire was used to assess their demographic details, knowledge, and perception regarding sexual health. The Chi-square test and Independent t-test were employed, and multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors, including the students' academic qualification, educational status of their mothers, and prior information on sexual health. Results: The respondents were predominantly male (60.4%), with a mean age of 19.32±1.262 years. The majority (95.4%) were undergraduate students, while 4.6% were postgraduate students. Muslims accounted for the majority of respondents (83%), followed by Hindus (14.6%). More than 90% of the participants were unmarried. Approximately 60% of the respondents’ mothers and 51% of the fathers had a high school education. Out of 540 respondents, 487 (90.2%) reported having obtained information on sexual health. Friends (41.7%) were the most preferred sources of information. The mean score for respondents’ knowledge was 3.79±1.3, and the mean score for perception was 31.26±4.5. Being a postgraduate student (p=0.035), having a higher educational status of the mother (p=0.034), and prior information on sexual health (p&lt;0.001) were significantly associated with higher knowledge. Being a postgraduate student (p=0.02) and having a higher educational status of the mother (p=0.03) were significantly associated with higher perception. A total of 21% of the respondents stated that sex education should be provided according to age appropriateness. Gender-wise differences were observed in the respondents’ opinions regarding the timing of sex education (p=0.024). Conclusion: Good knowledge and positive perception levels were significantly associated with the academic qualification of the study subjects and the educational status of their mothers. However, the respondents’ knowledge regarding fertilisation, pregnancy, and contraceptives was deficient. Therefore, implementing a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education program in schools and colleges, along with behavioural change communication materials, is urgently needed.

Assessing the effectiveness of a menstrual hygiene management and sexual and reproductive health education program in post-earthquake Nepal

This study assesses the effectiveness of a menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH), school-based education program conducted in Dhading, Nepal after the 2015 mega-earthquake. The intervention aimed to improve MHM/SRH knowledge among adolescent girls on a range of topics including adolescence, female anatomy, menstruation, and more. Quantitative data were collected via cross-sectional, self-administered, community-based surveys after the 2015 earthquake with 3,319 adolescent girls in grades 7-9 in Dhading district. Data were collected using the same survey tool before and after the intervention and responses were compared using SAS 9.4. Before the intervention, the median MHM/SRH knowledge score was 50% of the pre-test questions answered correctly. After the intervention, the median MHM/SRH knowledge score improved to 73% of the post-test questions answered correctly. Topics with the greatest percentage improvements between pre- and post-tests included age of menarche (from 20.5% to 60.0%), timing of taking emergency contraceptive pills after unsafe sexual contact (from 14.8% to 54.1%), and approaches for managing menstrual pain (from 42.2% to 77.1%). The school-based MHM/SRH educational intervention led to significant improvements in participant MHM/SRH knowledge. Equipping girls with accurate information about MHM/SRH long before a disaster occurs by embedding the information into the national school curriculum is one way to ensure they are prepared with key information required to manage MHM/SRH needs if another disaster occurs.