Adolescent reproductive health practices in Nigeria

Adolescents have become a focal point of discussions of sexuality and reproductive health matters because they belong to a most active segment of the population and because of practical concerns in resolving problems such as unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS Employing in-depth interviews and focus group discussion techniques, this study of 2,510 respondents from four tertiary educational institutions in Nigeria examined various forms of reproductive health practices, their origins, reproductive health services available in the institutions, and the role of gender relations in reproductive health concerns. The findings show that respondents engage in a wide range of folk practices and do-it-yourself procedures to maintain personal hygiene, prevent and treat STDs, as well as prevent and terminate unwanted pregnancies. These practices, which involve the use of every day commodities such as lime, antacid and other drugs in particular ways, are learnt from and passed on through peers. The practices are considered more confidential and are preferred to the reproductive health services in the institutions' clinics. There are obvious implications for avoidable complications, morbidity and mortality, all of which need to be redressed through intervention.