Professional paper
Reproductive health care of adolescents – models of prevention
Jagoda Dabo
; Department of public health, Primorsko Goranska County, Rijeka, Croatia
Đulija Malatestinić
; Department of social medicine and epidemiology, School of medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
Suzana Janković
; Department of social medicine and epidemiology, School of medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
Mirjana Bolf Malović
; Department of public health, Primorsko Goranska County, Rijeka, Croatia
Vlasta Kosanović
; Department of public health, Primorsko Goranska County, Rijeka, Croatia
Abstract
ABSTRACT. Aim: Sexually transmitted diseases (STD), unexpected pregnancies and sexual
abuse have become an inevitable global public healthcare problem. Due to the constant
increase in the number of STD cases, the prevention of these diseases is the basic
prerequisite for reproductive health in the adult age. The aim of the study was to evaluate
certain aspects of sexual behaviour in the 16 year old age group. Methods: The survey was
conducted among 595 second grade students in 4 secondary schools in the year 2007 by
means of valid self-reported questionnaires. Results: Sexual experience was reported by
26,6% of girls and 33,4% of boys. The majority of this study group had their first sexual
intercourse at the age of 16. Girls reported sexual experience with older partner more often
(63%) than boys. The knowledge about STD, pregnancy and available protection were not
related with the use of protective methods. Approximately 20% of the sexually active
adolescents did not use any contraceptives. In the year 2007, 250 gynaecological
examinations were done, including cytological analysis, Chlamidia testing and pelvic
ultrasound ( 25 CIN 1, 6 CIN 2, 12 ASCUS-a, 22 girls and 5 boys had a Chlamidia trachomatis
infection, 7 girls were HPV positive). Conclusions: The needs of youth in the existing health
system are not completely satisfied, and it necessary to form accessible multidisciplinary
“Youth frendly services – open door counselling”. Health education of adolescents improves
their knowledge of sexual behaviour, and also provides support and develops skills needed
for avoiding risk-taking behaviour, as well as preventing STDs and unwanted pregnancies.
The inclusion of adolescents in preventive programmes helps developing their capabilities,
self-respect and responsibility in sexual behaviour.
Keywords
adolescents; reproductive health; sexual education
Hrčak ID:
25954
URI
Publication date:
1.6.2008.
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