Knowledge and attitude about sexually transmitted infections among women in reproductive age group residing in the urban slums

Abstract

Background: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are group of disease primarily affecting sexually active population and has lead to a major public health problem in the reproductive age group (15-45 years), which are largely acquired through sexual act or close contact with genitals leading to potentially devastating effects. Aims and Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitude towards STDs among women of reproductive age group residing in urban slums and also to provide an insight to the reproductive and sexual health needs through health education sessions.

Methods: It is a community based cross sectional study and was conducted in the urban slums attached to a tertiary care hospital. House to house survey was done and women of reproductive age group residing in urban slums were selected and data was collected using predesigned and pretested proforma.  

Results: A total of 180 women were enrolled, of which 87.78% opined blood transfusion as major mode of transmission and 86.11% as unprotected sexual intercourse. 32.78% women told that fever is the commonest symptom, followed by menstrual irregularities (38.89%). 72.78% told that STDs can be diagnosed by blood examination. 32.78% opined that STDs can be prevented by using condoms and 27.22% told by giving sex education. 68.89% were willing to get screened for STDs. Overall literates were more aware about STDs compared to illiterates (p<0.001)

Conclusions:Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities should be promoted, so that it reaches the mass at a negligible cost.