Analysis of reproductive behaviour in Latvia
M. Orleana, D.
Baumane
Faculty of Medicine, Latvia University, Medical Centre of Diplomatic
Service, Riga, Latvia
In the last years the financial policy of the Latvian
government is adressing the issues for the improvement of the demographic
situation by positively increasing children benefits to mothers until the child
reaches one year of age.
It is one of the conditions why the birth rate in the
country has improved. Yet, the problem with young teenage girls (aged 15-19) who
have started an early sexual life is dramatic, because only 1/3 of them use
contraceptives. As a result, this age group demonstrantes the highest rate of
interrupted pregnancies. In Latvia there are only 20% of woman who use safe
contraception. Low level of health and sexual education at schools is the reason
of the problem.
Conclusions What conclusions and recommendations could change
the present situation in Latvia:
-
State policy has partially influenced the
birthrate in the positive way, therefore it would have to become one of the
state priorities.
-
Contraceptives should be included in the list of paid
medicines.
-
At present the government is having discussions about the order of
renumeration of hormonal contraceptives only for the treatment of gynaecological
diseases.
-
Price policy in the state is going to be equalled to common EU
demands.
It is important to change the level of education at schools by
increasing the number of compulsory health education lessons.