Sexual risk beheviour and risk perception of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases among young factory workers in Nepal

Abstract

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY : The main objectives of the study were to document and analyse the extent of sexual and reproductive health risk behaviour of young factory workers (14-19 years) and to understand risk perceptions and strategiesto avoid the dual risks of unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The ultimate aim is to identify ways in which the reproductive and sexual health of these young factory workers can be improved most effectively. The main component of the study comprised a survey of 550 girls and 500 boys engaged in the carpet and garment factories in Kathmandu valley. In-depth case studies of 23 respondents (12 girls and 11 boys) depicting high sexual risk behaviour and victims of rape and abortion were also conducted to supplement the survey findings. The questionnaire for the survey and the guidelines for the in-depth interviews were designed on the basis of "Illustrative questionnaire for interview-surveys with young people" and "Guidelines for in-depth interviews" developed by WHO. Necessary modifications were made to suit the Nepalese context and the research subjects. A half-day questionnaire finalisation workshop was also organised to invite suggestions from research professionals. Prior approval for the study was obtained from the Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) and Ethical Committee of London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). A consent form developed under WHO guidelines was also used to obtain respondents' "Informed Consent" prior to the interviews.