Adolescent Reproductive Health

Flashcards covering key concepts in Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH)

What is Adolescence?

The period between 10-19 years where sexual maturity develops along with social demands.

What are some characteristics of Adolescence?

Experimentation, curiosity, increasing confidence, increased sexual feelings, and the beginning of reproduction.

What is the aim of Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH) services?

To enable adolescents to undergo changes safely, with confidence, and with the best prospects for a healthy and productive life.

What does Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health refer to?

The physical and emotional well-being of adolescents, including freedom from unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abortion, STIs, HIV/AIDS, and sexual violence.

Why is Adolescent Reproductive Health a concern?

Large proportion of the population, increasing adolescent sexuality, productive forces of nations, and high prevalence of drug abuse.

What are the components of Adolescent Reproductive Health?

Adolescent FP, IEC, service, counselling, STIs/HIV, unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abortion, harmful traditional practices, FGM, abduction, rape, early marriage, sexual violence

Why have adolescent health problems been generally neglected?

Reported mortality and morbidity rates are low, and health problems are less obvious.

What are the major causes of adolescent reproductive health problems?

Early unprotected sexual intercourse and unwanted pregnancy.

What are some factors contributing to adolescent reproductive health problems?

Lack of knowledge, declining age of menarche, early marriage, sexual violence, peer influence, lack of knowledge of family planning, inaccessibility of services, and societal attitudes.

What are the consequences of adolescent sexuality and pregnancy?

Psychological impact, health impact (early childbearing complications, STIs/HIV), and socio-economic impact (school dropouts).

What are some strategies for improving Adolescent Reproductive Health?

Making clinical services available, youth-friendly environments, strong counseling, and comprehensive clinical services.

What services must be available to meet the Reproductive Health needs of Adolescents?

Confidentiality, convenient location and time, youth friendly environment, range of choices, strong counseling component, specially trained professionals, comprehensive clinical services.

What are some things to consider when providing information to ensure it is appropriate and relevant?

Provision of information on RH, Clinic education, community visits, exercises. Curriculum should address gender inequalities, that affect health and promotes shared female-male responsibility for health

How can community support be ensured for Adolescent Reproductive Health?

School-based clinics, community-based adolescent RH centers, peer group education, ARH clubs, and youth centers.

Who are the direct and indirect targets of ARH programs?

In-school adolescents, out-of-school adolescents, street adolescents, parents, school teachers, policy makers, community leaders, and religious leaders.

What role do parents play in Adolescent Reproductive Health?

Parents should improve interaction, guide their children, and support their maturation in sexual behavior and RH.

What efforts should be made to create a supportive environment for youths?

Create supportive environments, provide information on negotiating skills, and overcome discomfort with adolescent sexuality.

What values should be developed in adolescents regarding sexual relationships?

Developing respect, non-exploitation, mutuality, honesty, maturity, compassion, acknowledgement of diversity, and self-discipline.