Self-medication with antibiotics and knowledge and attitudes toward rational antibiotic use among women of reproductive age

Objective: This study aimed to assess self-medication with antibiotics and evaluate knowledge and attitudes toward rational antibiotic use among women of reproductive age.Method: This descriptive study was conducted among 1002 women who attended a state hospital in the southern region of Türkiye. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Antibiotic Use Scale (AUS) and the Knowledge-Attitude Scale for Rational Antibiotic Use (RAUKAS).Results: The mean AUS score was 40.4 ± 17.9, while the RAUKAS knowledge and attitude scores were 27.7 ± 8.9 and 30.6 ± 12.6, respectively. Overall, 24.5% of women reported self-medication with antibiotics within the last 6 months. The most common indications were cold or influenza (62.4%), toothache or dental swelling (58.0%), sore throat (51.8%), fever (31.4%), cough (25.3%), urinary burning (23.3%), headache (19.2%), abdominal pain (16.7%), fatigue (15.9%), and skin infection (11.8%). In addition, 30.0% kept antibiotics at home, 64.0% had never heard of antibiotic resistance, and attitude toward rational antibiotic use was the strongest predictor of self-medication (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Self-medication with antibiotics is practiced and represents a significant public health concern, with insufficient awareness of rational antibiotic use, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions and public health strategies.