Sexual and reproductive health education for adolescents; Need of the hour
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Date
2013
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Abstract
fodav, globaii) die rcproducli\ o hcatlh of adolcsccnis is oi’ growing concern undeniabiy due to the alarming
inerea.scs of sexual and iC|troducli\ e health problems. Even though reproductive health care is a relatively ticw
concept li is undoubtedly proven to be a very important contponent in general health. Reproductive health care is
needed tlrroughoul life span ofcvcrv' individual specially wo'men and precisely during adolescence since it is crucial
during this period. Yet in most culture it is most prominently addressed during adulthood. Adolescence being tlie
[rcriod ot’piiberta! cliangcs, sc.xua! maturation, curiosity and e.xpcrimcntation make them vulnerable. Despite being
acknowledge die special needs of adolescents are largely ignored due to the per])etuate idea of discussing anything
related to sex is taboo. Williout any or little knowledge from unreliable sources adolescents are exploring
tlremseir cs in diis field rcsuhirig in adolescent pregnancies, unsafe abortion, contracting STIs inciuding HIWAIDS
rurllicr liindei in social and economic development ofnation. The findings of various studies recommend one of the
key actions needed to imprrive reproducliveiieaitii is liie empowerment ofadolescents especially through education
programmes. This paper draws allention to the tiigeiit need of the intervention strategies aimed at enhancing
ailoleseciiis' knowledge and bring desirable changes in their attitude tliiis to strengthen the quality of practices on
!epixiduci!\‘e iieailii eare.