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Table 2 Caregiver perceptions of reproductive health for women with ID

From: Caregiver awareness of reproductive health issues for women with intellectual disabilities

Items of perception

Correct responders n (%)

Menstrual perception

 

   Self medication is the best way to relieve menstrual pain (n = 1144) (R)

1098 (96.0)

   Appropriate exercise is allowed during menstrual period (n = 1137)

1005 (88.4)

   The large amount of menstrual flow in the first three days is normal (n = 1140)

996 (87.4)

   It is abnormal to menstruate before 16 years of age (n = 1131)

711 (62.9)

   Menstrual pain is a symptom of reproductive diseases (n = 1131) (R)

716 (63.3)

Sex education

 

   It is not a crime to have sex with children under 16 years of age (n = 1145) (R)

1104 (96.4)

   It does not get pregnant to have one sex intercourse (n = 1145) (R)

1101 (96.2)

   A vaginal douche after sex can avoid pregnancy (n = 1143) (R)

1000 (87.5)

   Using condoms during sex intercourse can prevent getting STDs (n = 1136)

920 (81.0)

   Masturbation will cause impotence or frigidity (n = 1137) (R)

893 (78.5)

Menopause perception

 

   Hormonal fluctuations will cause physical or mental issues during perimenopause (n = 1139)

1103 (96.8)

   Menopause is a natural process and not a disease (n = 1146)

1098 (95.8)

   Women can adjust or stop hormone replacement medication during perimenopause without consultation with their doctor (n = 1141) (R)

1083 (94.9)

   Menopausal women face a high risk of osteoporosis (n = 1143)

1057 (92.5)

   A high fat, low fiber and calcium diet are recommended during perimenopause (n = 1137) (R)

870 (76.5)

Preventive health services

 

   Monthly self breast exams are necessary to prevent cancer (n = 1147)

1089 (94.9)

   Regular Pap smear tests are necessary even if you have PVC vaccinations (n = 1145)

1076 (94.0)

   Regular Pap smear tests depend on the needs of women aged over 30 years (n = 1143) (R)

1011 (88.5)

   There is a free breast mammography service available every 2 years for women aged 45-69 years (n = 1141)

820 (71.9)

   There is a free health exam service available every 3 years for women aged 40-64 years (n = 1133)

761 (67.2)

  1. Items followed by (R) are reverse scored.