Attitude and Involvement Regarding Sexual and Reproductive Health Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study...

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a crucial aspect of overall health and well-being, especially among young adults. However, in many low- and middle-income countries, including Bangladesh, SRH issues remain underexplored due to sociocultural taboos, stigma, and inadequate education. This lack of attention can adversely affect both sexual practices and reproductive health in the future. This study aimed to assess the attitudes and practices regarding SRH issues and their associated sociodemographic factors among university students in Bangladesh.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 undergraduate students at a public university in Bangladesh using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes, and practices related to SRH. Moreover, descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 27.

Approximately half of the participants demonstrated negative attitudes and poor SRH practices. Factors such as maternal education, family income, residential location, and family structure were significantly associated with SRH attitudes and practices (p < 0.05). Students from urban areas, nuclear families, and higher socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to report positive attitudes and practices. Male participants were significantly less likely to engage in SRH practices compared to females (AOR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18-0.52, p < 0.001). Participants aged less than 22 years had significantly lower odds of a positive attitude toward SRH (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.24-0.85, p = 0.013).

Sociodemographic disparities significantly influence attitudes and practices toward SRH issues among university students in Bangladesh. Younger male students were less likely to practice good SRH. These findings highlight the urgent need for inclusive, gender-sensitive, and culturally appropriate SRH education programs in academic settings to promote informed decision-making and healthier behaviors among young adults.