Barriers to Utilization of Adolescent-Friendly Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Among Secondary School Students in Nigeria

Background

Adolescents face unique sexual and reproductive health challenges that require accessible, confidential, and youth-friendly healthcare services. Despite efforts to improve adolescent health outcomes in Nigeria, utilization of adolescent-friendly services remains low. Cultural norms, stigma, inadequate awareness, concerns about confidentiality, and limited service availability contribute to poor service uptake. Low utilization increases the risk of unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and adverse reproductive health outcomes. Understanding barriers affecting adolescent access to sexual and reproductive health services is important for strengthening youth-centered interventions. This study seeks to investigate barriers to utilization of adolescent-friendly sexual and reproductive health services among secondary school students in Nigeria.

Research Objectives

• Assess awareness of adolescent-friendly sexual and reproductive health services.
• Determine utilization rates among secondary school students.
• Identify barriers affecting service utilization.
• Examine socio-demographic factors associated with service uptake.
• Recommend strategies for improving access to adolescent-friendly services.

Research Questions

• What is the level of awareness of adolescent-friendly health services?
• What proportion of students utilize these services?
• What barriers affect service utilization?
• Which socio-demographic factors influence service uptake?
• What interventions can improve utilization?

Suggested Methodology

Suggested Sample

Keywords