Prevalence of self-reported symptoms of reproductive tract infections and promoting an awareness of reproductive health among adolescent girls through education approach in Kumbakonam rural region of Tamil Nadu state.

INTRODUCTION

Adolescent females in India particularly from rural areas indicate sparse sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and are at risk of unfavourable sexual and reproductive health outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The study was primarily intended to assess the effect of structured interventional education on awareness and practices of school-going adolescent girls about sexual and reproductive health.

METHODS

This was an interventional study comprising of interactive strategies, namely peer-led approach, flipped learning, skit, scenario-based discussion and puppetry. The pre- and post-test was conducted among 1232 girls in selected schools at rural block in Kumbakonam rural region of Tamil Nadu State of India.

RESULTS

The participants reported statistically significant gain in knowledge, attitudes and practices about reproductive health due to educational intervention ( < 0.001). Nearly 50% of participants were aware about various contraceptive methods before intervention. The prevalence of self-reported symptoms of RTIs/STIs was 23.7%. Nearly more than half of participants were aware about various contraceptive methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Peer-led education can be a potential health promotion strategy among adolescent population.