Educating young people about the peculiarities of reproductive health as an opportunity to influence demographic processes and economic security in Russia

Subject. The article addresses the possibility of influencing or correcting the reproductive attitudes of young people through their education on this issue. Objectives. The study aims at assessing the need and possibility of making a certain contribution to the formation of a culture of reproductive health among young people, which may have a positive impact on building a culture of health, and contribute to solving demographic problems. Methods. The study employs general scientific methods (identification of problems, analysis, comparison, systematization, generalization, conclusions); empirical methods (statistical, assessment of expert opinion, study of experience); and dialectical, systematic, and integrated methodological approaches. Results. Modern studies indicate that the priorities for today’s young people include building a career, growth of prosperity, and desire to "live for themselves," which lead to postponing the birth of children at a later date. This can negatively affect the reproductive potential of future parents and their offspring. Statistics show that the average age of first birth in women has increased in recent decades (both in Russia and in the Republic of Karelia). However, there is a possibility of influencing the reproductive plans and attitudes of young people through educational work on the peculiarities of human reproductive health. Conclusions. Educating the youth audience about reproductive health and possible risks associated with it is a significant factor influencing the potential parents themselves and their offspring, as well as the state of society.