Exploring the magnitude and determinants of ovulatory period knowledge among young women in somalia: a multilevel analysis utilizing data from the 2020 Somali health and demographic survey (SHDS)

Understanding menstrual cycle knowledge (MCK) is crucial for women's reproductive health, enabling informed decisions about family planning and overall well-being. Research indicates low MCK prevalence globally, especially in developing countries like Somalia. Limited MCK contributes to negative reproductive health outcomes such as unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions. This study examines determinants of MCK among young Somali women. Using the 2020 Somalia Health and Demographic Survey (SHDS), a multilevel binary logistic regression analysis was conducted on a sample of 4,979 young women. The analysis revealed that only 21.83% of young women in Somalia had accurate MCK. Significant predictors of MCK included age, educational attainment, residence, media exposure, and household wealth. Older women (35–39 years) were significantly more likely to have accurate MCK (AOR = 1.37, 95% CI 0.99–1.88, p = 0.038) compared to younger women (15–19 years). Women with higher education levels demonstrated significantly higher odds of having accurate MCK (AOR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.3–3.6, p < 0.001) compared to those with no formal education. Rural residents were significantly more likely to have accurate MCK (AOR = 1.18, 95% CI 0.9–1.5, p = 0.014) compared to urban residents. Women who had heard about family planning on the radio also exhibited significantly higher odds of accurate MCK (AOR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.03–1.68, p = 0.031). The low MCK prevalence highlights the need for improved access to reproductive health information and education in Somalia. Investing in female secondary education, utilizing diverse media channels for dissemination, and targeting interventions for nomadic communities are crucial steps. This study underscores the importance of empowering women with knowledge about their reproductive health. Policymakers must prioritize expanding access to quality education, leveraging media effectively, and addressing underlying socioeconomic factors to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.