Genital hygiene is one of the fundamental health behaviors that play a crucial role in
protecting women's reproductive health. The reproductive age, defined as 15-49 years, is
the period in which reproductive health issues are most frequently observed. It is
reported that approximately one million women worldwide experience genital infections
each year, and 75% of women have a history of vaginal infection. In developing countries,
this issue is a significant public health concern that women encounter at least once in
their lifetime. In Turkey, regional studies indicate that both genital infections and
risky hygiene behaviors that may lead to vaginal infections are prevalent. Especially
among young women, adopting proper hygiene habits is crucial in preventing genital
infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and other urogenital health problems.
The Health Belief Model (HBM) is a widely used theoretical framework for understanding
and improving individuals' health behaviors. HBM aims to explain individuals' perceptions
of a disease or health problem and how these perceptions influence their behaviors. This
model consists of several components: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity,
perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action. Educational
programs are expected to increase individuals' awareness based on these components and
promote positive behavioral changes in hygiene practices.
Hygiene education plays a vital role in maintaining genital hygiene. Various studies in
the literature examine the relationship between education and young women's urogenital
health. Research findings indicate that female students have knowledge gaps and that
students who receive genital hygiene education adopt more conscious hygiene practices.
However, experimental studies investigating the effect of HBM-based genital hygiene
education on genital hygiene behaviors and attitudes toward the prevention of urinary
tract infections remain limited.
In this context, the present study aims to evaluate the relationship between nurse-led
HBM-based education provided to students of the Faculty of Health Sciences and their
genital hygiene behaviors and attitudes toward UTI prevention.
This study seeks to enhance the hygiene awareness of students receiving education in the
healthcare field, contributing to the development of healthy lifestyle habits.
Additionally, the study's findings will provide essential data for improving educational
programs and establishing strategies for protecting urogenital health.