Book Description
This research explored the perceptions of young people regarding the use of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services in Ashaiman, Ghana. In particular, it explored their perceptions about contraceptives, SRH service providers as well as their access and use of SRH educational materials. The study also explored ways of improving service utilization by correcting the misconceptions of young people about SRH services. The health belief model was used to appraise how people’s perceptions of their susceptibility to a particular health condition, the severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action and self-efficacy impact their health behavior, more so reproductive health. Twelve people were recruited using purposive and convenience sampling. They were asked ten sets of open-ended questions concerning the study’s objectives. Using a thematic content analysis approach, it was found that most participants consider contraceptives, especially condoms, as preventing pregnancies and STIs. However, each person expressed concern over the side effects of hormonal contraceptives as this influences their decisions to use condoms and pills more. The findings also established that there is a negative perception about SRH service providers because they are considered unwelcoming to young people, charge higher fees or seek husbands’ consent before administering long-term contraceptives to married women. Participants, therefore, recommended stakeholders to work on improving health workers professionalism and include family planning services under the National Health Insurance. Sex education should also be included in the educational system to provide credible and timely information; government should commit resources to SRH services, and various services providers were encouraged to coordinate efforts towards achieving a common goal. Limitations of the study were noted, and recommendations for stakeholders and future studies were also made.
