Women’s Reproductive Health Literacy: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Objectives: Considering the importance of reproductive health and the major role of health literacy in health promotion, this study was conducted to explore the concepts and dimensions of women’s reproductive health literacy. Materials and Methods: This is a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with 13 married women of reproductive age residing in Tehran, Iran, and 9 Ph.D.-educated health professionals. Results: 4 themes emerged: 1) knowledge about sexual and reproductive health consisted of knowledge about physical and mental aspects of reproductive health, especially in pregnancy and sexual matters, 2) obtaining and understanding information about reproductive health, including the ability to obtain information, acquiring information, and understanding information from different sources, 3) evaluating the information about reproductive health (by assessing the validity of information sources, consulting informed people about information accuracy, and concluding from the information), and 4) using the information to improve reproductive health behaviors: by making informed decisions, general health self-care behaviors, having desirable sex by talking about their needs and desires and trying to solve sexual issues. Conclusions: Reproductive health literacy, from the view of the participants, consisted of having knowledge and obtaining an understanding of correct information about reproductive health and using them as behaviors that lead to the promotion of reproductive health. Therefore, the attention of health policymakers and stakeholders to these concepts and dimensions can increase the reproductive health literacy of women in society through effective planning and strategies.