Socioeconomic Factors And Their Impact On Reproductive Health Outcomes Among Homeless Adolescent Girls

Abstract

The surge in global homelessness poses a critical the difficulty of public health, especially in poor countries nations like India. The predicament is exacerbated for vulnerable populations, such as adolescent girls, who confront heightened susceptibility to severe health issues. This piece of writing aims to illuminate the issues of knowledge and health problems that are encountered by teenage girls who are homeless in the Nizamuddin neighbourhood of Delhi, India. To delve into the intricacies of this issue, data was meticulously gathered through interviews and focus group discussions. A a representative sample of two hundred and fifty young men and women, aged 10-19 years, participated in the study, sharing their experiences and perspectives. A semi-structured guide facilitated the collection of qualitative data, providing rich insights into the participants' lives. The analysis of the collected data uncovered a concerning lack of awareness among homeless adolescent girls in Nizamuddin regarding reproductive health. Additionally, inadequate hygiene practices during menstruation were prevalent among this demographic. The findings indicated a critical need for interventions to address these gaps in knowledge and practices. Focus group discussions revealed that taboos and beliefs surrounding reproductive health were being perpetuated across generations, notably transmitted by mothers and older women. This intergenerational transfer of misconceptions underscores the necessity for targeted educational initiatives to break the cycle of misinformation. Building upon these results, it is imperative to formulate recommendations that can [1]elevate the health literacy of homeless adolescent girls. Initiatives should focus on fostering awareness about reproductive health and promoting hygiene practices during menstruation. Additionally, interventions should be designed to encourage these girls to seek assistance when faced with reproductive health difficulties. To comprehensively address the issue, a suggested avenue for future research involves conducting a comparative study between homeless adolescent girls and those belonging to economically disadvantaged families with stable homes. Such a study could elucidate the unique challenges faced by each group, informing targeted interventions and policies. In conclusion, this research sheds light on the critical health disparities experienced by homeless adolescent girls in Nizamuddin, Delhi. The findings underscore the urgency of implementing comprehensive strategies to enhance awareness, dispel myths, and improve reproductive health practices. By understanding the nuances of this issue, policymakers and healthcare professionals can work towards creating tailored interventions that empower these vulnerable individuals to lead healthier lives.