Investigation of factors affecting young women's sexual and reproductive health stigma attitudes

This research was conducted to examine the factors affecting stigma attitudes regarding sexual and reproductive health among young women. The population of the study consisted of 1,727 young women studying at Çankırı Karatekin University's Faculty of Health Sciences. The sample comprised 338 individuals who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected between April 2022 and June 2022. The data collection process utilized a Data Collection Form that included demographic information and the Stigma Scale for Sexual and Reproductive Health in Young Women (SSSRHYW). For data analysis, frequency analysis (count, percentage, mean) was performed for categorical variables, while descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) were used for numerical variables. The average external stigma score of the young women participating in the study was found to be 3.3 ± 1.91, the average internal stigma score was 1.88 ± 1.52, the score for non-existent stigma attitudes was 1.24 ± 1.83, and the total average score from the scale was 6.42 ± 4.1. It was determined that there was a statistically significant relationship (p<0.05) between stigma attitudes and variables such as the field of study, class, longest place of residence, income level, pre-marital sexual experience, views on those with pre-marital sexual experiences, and discussions about sexual issues with family. Therefore, it is recommended to identify the factors affecting stigma attitudes among young women and to take necessary measures to prevent the rise of stigma, along with conducting required educational and counseling activities in this area.