Exploring youth information seeking on sexual and reproductive health and rights in Senegal

In an evolving world, adolescents and young adults are changing their approach to searching sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information. This study in Senegal identifies preferred sources of information through 31 in-depth interviews and 46 focus groups discussions involving adolescents, young adults, parents, youth service providers, and community leaders. Analyzing the data using content analysis, findings highlight the internet as a favored SRHR information source, providing accessible and confidential information, enabling anonymous access and mitigating societal stigmatization. Health care providers and teachers are perceived as reliable sources due to their knowledge, skills, and training while parent-adolescent communication is limited. Comprehensive research is essential to understand how the internet can be used for effective communication on SRHR among adolescents and young adults in Senegal. New SRHR communication strategies should harmoniously integrate family dynamics with the influence of social media and digital platforms, in response to ongoing social change.