Barriers to Reproductive Health Access for Adolescent Girls in Urban Slums: A Case Study of Korail, Dhaka

Abstract

The study involved a cross sectional mixed method approach to identifying barriers and opportunities for reproductive health service utilization for adolescent girls in Korail slum, Dhaka. Structured questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from 120 girls aged 13–19 years. While 59.16% have no access to reproductive health services, 94.17% has heard of reproductive health. Limited awareness, parental disapproval, fear and stigma, cultural restrictions, financial constraints and limited service availability were key barriers. Also, 64.16% suffered mistreatment and/or discrimination. Mothers and women family members were relied upon sources of information. The majority of the respondents agreed with the reproductive health education in schools. The study suggests services that are accessible, comprehensive education, family engagement, and stigma-free policies.