SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OF WOMEN IN ALMATY: PROBLEMS AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS IN THE CONTEXT OF EDUCATIONAL REFORMS

Аннотация

Reproductive health is a fundamental condition for a healthy society and a prosperous future for generations. In Kazakhstan, especially in Almaty, socioeconomic inequality, women’s lack of awareness of risks, and limited access to health services remain key challenges. The study, based on a cross-sectional quantitative methodology, included a survey of 320 women aged 18–49 years in eight districts of the Almaty city. Results showed that 59.4% of respondents experience pelvic pain, and 48.8% report changes in menstrual pain. However, 34.4% found it difficult to assess symptoms such as pain during sexual activity, indicating stigma around discussing reproductive health issues. The findings highlight the need for educational reforms aimed at increasing reproductive literacy. However, cultural barriers, limited access to health care, and socioeconomic inequality continue to hinder progress. To overcome these challenges, cross- sectoral strategies are needed, including the integration of reproductive health programs into educational institutions and targeted initiatives to improve health infrastructure. The results of the study offer recommendations that can be applied not only in Kazakhstan, but also in other countries with similar dynamics, creating a basis for sustainable reforms in the field of education and health. Keywords: reproductive health; educational reforms; socio-economic inequality; women's health; sociology of medicine; sociology of reproductive behavior; access to health care.