Pelin TİNTA, Birsen KARACA SAYDAM, Aysun EKŞİOĞLU, Esin CEBER TURFAN
Ebelik ve Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi - 2025;8(4):326-334
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the reproductive health problems and healthcare needs of women living in Hatay Province after the 6 February earthquake. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with 234 women who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic of Hatay Arsuz State Hospital. The sample size was calculated using the Epi Info program based on a population of 550 women, with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire developed by the researchers, consisting of three sections. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: Prior to the earthquake, 47.9% of the participants reported using a family planning method, whereas this rate decreased to 38.5% after the disaster. A total of 63.2% of the women reported experiencing menstrual irregularities. The most frequently reported health problems included vaginal infections, urinary tract infections, and sexual health issues. Moreover, 42.7% of the participants stated that they could not access reproductive health services following the disaster. Housing problems and overcrowded living conditions were also found to negatively affect women's health. Conclusion: The findings indicate that access to reproductive health services significantly deteriorates in the aftermath of disasters, increasing women's vulnerability to reproductive health problems. Strengthening health infrastructure, ensuring the continuity of contraceptive services, and incorporating preventive and protective reproductive health strategies into disaster preparedness and response plans are crucial to safeguarding women's health in post-disaster settings.
