Awareness and attitude towards reproductive and sexual health rights and practices among college students: An empirical study

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the knowledge, awareness and attitudes among college going students towards reproductive and sexual health rights, issues and practices. Methods/Statistical analysis: A cross-sectional study was conducted across colleges of Guwahati city among the first year students over the months of January and February 2020. The method of systematic random sampling was used. Sample size amounted to 306 students. Age group of the sample ranged between 18-19 years. The basic inclusion criteria was that the target population needs to be first year students enrolled in either science or arts stream. Self-administered questionnaires were the primary method of data collection. Analysis of data was done using Microsoft excel and open EPI software. Chi square test of independence was performed to test linkages between crucial variables. Findings : A total of 306 students were enrolled for the study. With respect to knowledge about legal statutes relating to reproductive rights issues like abortion, duration of maternity leave, 52% of the respondents had correct knowledge and information. 49% of the students were aware about the legality of homosexuality in India. Knowledge questions on sexual health and menstrual hygiene generated correct responses from 44% of students. 87% of the students favoured inclusion of sex education in at the institutional levels and free supply of implements for maintenance of menstrual hygiene at schools and colleges. Application: The findings of this study can supplement and assist further health policy research in the field of adolescent sexual health rights and needs especially, in the Northeastern Indian region.

Knowledge and Perceptions on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Among University of Rwanda Students: A Mixed-Method Study

“…Since our ndings revealed that only 43% have good knowledge of SRH; hence UR students need to increase their knowledge of SRHR. These ndings are almost similar to various studies conducted in Ethiopia, India and Sri Lanka(Gebresilassie et al,2019;Gajendran, 2020;Perera & Abeysena 2022). knowledge about SRHR is essential, studies argue that youths face an increased risk of unwanted pregnancy, STIs, and HIV/AIDS.…”

“…In a study conducted in Sri Lanka on undergraduates, students reported that 24.4% had good knowledge 38.3% had satisfactory knowledge and 37.2% had poor knowledge on SRHR (Perera & Abeysena 2022; Areskoug-Josefsson et al, 2019). Another study conducted in University in India on students reported that only 52% had correct knowledge (Gajendran, 2020). Study conducted in Ethiopia University reported that only 57.7% were knowledgeable in SRHR (Gebresilassie et al,2019).…”

A critical analysis of the standard of consent in rape law in India

“…An affirmative standard of consent would not help reduce instances of sexual assault. Studies into the knowledge and attitudes towards the sexual practice of college students in India over the past decade also reveal similar issues (Kumar and Mittal 2015, Dutt and Manjula 2017, Mukherjee et al 2019, Bhagwati 2020, Lahari and Abhinaya 2021.…”