Factors affecting knowledge and practices of female school students in reproductive life issues in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: To assess the level of knowledge and practices of female students in reproductive health issues of menstruation, pregnancy, labor and puerperium and to identify the factors affecting knowledge and practices. Subjects and methods: A total of 719 female students were sampled from intermediate and secondary schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, through a multi stage stratified sample. A comprehensive self administered questionnaire was used to determine the level of knowledge in reproductive issues, information related to its practices and source of help during menstrual period. Results: Mean age of menarche was 13.1 years. Source of information before menarche was mainly mothers and religious books. Students sought information during the first period from their mothers (57.3%), older sisters (28.7%) and school friends (14.0%). Knowledge regarding menstrual period was deficient. Seeking information from mothers was related to the educational level of the mother. Factors significantly associated with higher knowledge index were age of student, higher educational level of mother and two sources of prior information (religious books and mother). Conclusion and recommendation: The study stresses the importance of religion as an influential force on the knowledge of reproductive health issues and emphasizes the role of an educated mother as a source of valid and trusted information for the growing girl. Further research is needed in the area of teacher-training in delivering suitable information and conveying the right attitude and practices to young girls on these issues.