Access to reproductive health services

This participatory research explores the concerns of Ugandan out-out-of-school adolescents regarding sexuality, economics and family issues. A peer group methodology was used to stimulate adolescents to share their concerns on a broad range of topics, including work and economic issues, family relationships, life aspirations, sexuality and reproductive health. The study revealed that out-of-school youths clearly lack information and opportunities compared with in-school adolescents. Adolescents were often sexually active at a very young age (10-14 years). Multiple factors encouraged males and females to begin sexual activity at an early age. Factors cited include peer pressure, and examples set by parents and older siblings, media, and financial pressures for females. Out-of-school youths often experienced strong financial pressures. Lack of access to cash and employment opportunities for females resulted in risky sex. For both sexes, it means difficulty accessing condoms and contraceptives, as well as curative health services at local clinics. HIV/AIDS awareness was high among adolescents in these communities, but risk perception varies with age. Adolescent behavior related to HIV/AIDS was affected by multiple factors including economics, gender dynamics, trust and communication, and social perceptions. Recommendations to help out-of-school youths in Uganda are given.