Navigating Risks: Exploring Sexual and Reproductive Health and Contraceptive Awareness among Adolescent Girls in in District Dehradun

Abstract

Background: Adolescence brings about significant changes in the life, making it crucial to develop lifelong healthy habits. However, societal norms often restrict open discussions on sexual and reproductive health (SRH). In India, access to accurate SRH information and healthcare remains limited for many adolescents. Aim & Objective: To study trend in risk taking behavior related to sexual & reproductive health of adolescent girls and to find out awareness about and use of contraception in the study population. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two randomly selected intercolleges in district Dehradun. Methods and Material: A total of 400 unmarried school-going adolescent girls (classes 9th–12th) were surveyed with a focus on SRH. Statistical Analysis Used: Percentages and chi-square test. Results: The mean age of respondents was 15.62 (±1.557) years. Teachers were the primary source of SRH information, but only 26.2% respondents had attended sex education classes. While most had heard of HIV/AIDS, knowledge about other sexually transmitted infections was low. Awareness of condoms and oral contraceptive pills was higher than other methods and improved with age. Conclusion: The study highlights inadequate access to accurate SRH information and the need for comprehensive education programs to promote informed decision-making.