Reproductive Morbidity of Women in Karnataka

The main objective of the present study is to highlight the extent of reproductive health problems, the factors responsible for increasing RTI cases and to suggest appropriate strategies. Five types of obstetric problems and seven types of gynaecological problems were listed in both National Family Health Survey-2 (NFHS-2) and Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) surveys. Fewer than half the women reported at least one obstetric morbidity and more than one-tenth reported at least one gynaecological morbidity. More women in urban areas had reported obstetric morbidity whereas more women from rural areas reported gynaecological morbidity. Educated women, women who work in other activities and Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe women reported that they are suffering from obstetric problems. Women who do not have toilet facilities at home and women who live in semi-pucca houses reported gynaecological problems. There is a relationship between age at first delivery or 'child-birth' and the reproductive morbidity of women. Reproductive morbidity due to abortion is high among rural women. Data reveals that fewer than half the women who reported gynaecological problems did not seek treatment. Of the women who reported at least one symptom of gynaecological problems nearly half were in the 25-34 age group and only 50-60 per cent of them sought treatment. Education played a major role in women's health-seeking behaviour. Among those who sought treatment majority had gone to private health facilities. There is need to expand informed choices among women. Women must be empowered to take charge of their pregnancy-related needs. It is important to raise community awareness regarding early marriage and pregnancy. Misconceptions about nutrition and health care during pregnancy must be confronted at the community level and among pregnant women, and the families in which they reside.