Will They be Able to Execute Their Reproductive Rights

Abstract

WHO has defined reproductive rights to protect reproductive health.They  are equal for both male and female. But when it comes to execution, male get advantage over female  unless female population is aware of them. As sexuality education is limited to menstrual hygiene and reproductive biology, there is possibility that  the young girls  are ignorant. Present study is done to assess their basic knowledge about reproductive health. Method:  a self administered questionnaire was given to group of college going girls. 130  girls voluntarily filled it. They were knowing how sex of baby is decided but could not associated gender discrimination to female foeticide. The scientific knowledge about menstruation and menstrual hygiene was present only in 19 and 14%. Only 20% were knowing when to visit doctor. Only 15% had knowledge about anaemia, 7% could relate missing period with pregnancy, 8% were knowing that sexual contact can cause pregnancy or STD. Knowledge about female contraceptive was better than male contraceptives/emergency contraceptive. The concept of premarital health check up is very poorly understood. Conclusion: Educating girls about menstrual hygiene should be enforced along with comprehensive sexuality education in phase wise manner to both boys and girls so that they can execute the reproductive rights