Health-Seeking Behaviour and its Challenges for Reproductive Tract Infections Among Married Women of Reproductive Age Group Residing at Urban Slums of Agra: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Date
2025-03
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Dr.Viral R.Dave
Abstract
Introduction: Reproductive tract infections continue to be a major public health issue, especially for urban low-income women of reproductive age. RTI burden is increased by delayed diagnosis and treatment due to poor health-seeking behaviour and other socioeconomic constraints. This study looks at the health-seeking habits and difficulties of married, reproductive-age women living in Agra's urban slums. Objective: 1. To assess the health- seeking behaviour for reproductive tract infections among married women of urban slum of Agra. 2. To explore the challenges they faced for the treatment of reproductive tract infections Method: A cross-sectional study among 500 married women in Agra's urban slums used the WHO syndromic approach for RTI/STI diagnosis. Multistage random sampling selected one ward and two slums. Interviews followed a random starting direction and the left- hand rule until the sample size was met. Results: The study found that 57.92% of females with RTI/STI symptoms sought treatment, while 42.07% did not, with barriers including perceived lack of importance, financial constraints, embarrassment, lack of family support, and time limitations. Conclusion: In Agra's urban slums, just over half of women sought treatment for RTI/STI symptoms, primarily at government facilities, while significant barriers prevented others. Perceived lack of seriousness, financial constraints, and embarrassment were key deterrents. A major reason for stopping the treatment was absence of symptoms. Interventions are needed to increase awareness, improve access, address financial issues and reduce stigma.
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Keywords
Health Seeking Behaviour, Reproductive Health, Reproductive Tract Infections, Urban Slums
Citation
Yadav A, Chaudhary SS, Kaur S, Madhukar MN, Sonam.. Health-Seeking Behaviour and its Challenges for Reproductive Tract Infections Among Married Women of Reproductive Age Group Residing at Urban Slums of Agra: A Cross-Sectional Study. Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine, Gujarat Chapter. 2025 Mar; 16(1): 16-21