Sexual and reproductive health needs of young people: matching needs with systems
provides background data on the sexual health needs of young people
positions young people’s sexual rights as the foundation of healthy sexuality
recognises the evolving capacity of young people in decision-making
identifies the things that encourage young people to access services
describes what should be provided before, during, and after a visit to a youth service.
Despite efforts to provide youth-friendly services, the uptake of services by young people is very low. What must be taken into account are young people's pathways to seeking services; and the specific barriers they face before getting to the services, while receiving services, and after leaving the service delivery sites. Attention to the perceptions and needs of young people is essential, along with the development of policies, services, and programmes that address those needs, particularly the youth-friendly approach to service delivery.
When young people have access to health and education, they become a powerful force for economic development and positive change. Professionals in their role as clinicians should continuously reflect on their values, attitudes, and commitment to the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of young people, and must be competent to provide the services.
Access to services is key to promoting the SRHR of young people. A more holistic (so-called “positive”) approach toward SRHR is needed, including services which address sexual and gender-based violence, sexual diversity, discrimination, relationship issues, and fears and concerns about sex and sexuality.
Including young people in the design and promotion of the services helps identify the barriers to access and can ensure that services meet the needs of young people. This paper breaks down what should happen at every step, from identifying what will make a young person want, and be able to access a service, to what they should be offered when they reach the service, to follow-up.
The authors recommend that health managers should be proactive in advocating for changes in policies and laws that restrict access to sexual and reproductive health services for young people; and that they evaluate and document the impact of SRHR interventions on young people's morbidity and mortality.
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