Young women migrant workers: Profile, knowledge and perceptions of STIs, HIV/AIDS and pregnancy

• Main Author: De Guzman, Alicia Lourdes M.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2002
• Subjects: Migrant labor; Women > Health and hygiene; AIDS (Disease); Pregnancy; Perception; Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/2667
• Institution: De La Salle University

This study describes the characteristics of young women migrant workers and their knowledge and perceptions of STIs/HIV/AIDS and pregnancy and protective measures.The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with 20 young women migrant workers. Respondents were single women, 17 to 24 years old, and employed in predominantly female manufacturing companies located in the CALABARZON (for the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) economic corridor. The study showed that young women migrant workers possess characteristics that have been associated with greater risks for STIs, HIV/AIDS, and pregnancy. They are in their middle to late adolescent years, the period when sexual activity is commonly initiated. They are migrants living independent of adult supervision, giving them the freedom to engage in sexual activity, should they so decide. And they are vulnerable because of the lack of awareness of basic information about STIs, HIV/AIDS, and pregnancy and protective measures.None of the respondents have had the opportunity to attend health information activities within their companies due to pressures of work. Awareness of AIDS was universal, albeit flawed. Respondents also had very little knowledge of STIs and pregnancy. Most respondents believed that fidelity to one's sexual partner would protect them from disease. Moreover, very few are aware that one unprotected act of sexual intercourse could put them at risk for STIs and pregnancy.