Assessment of Adolescents Knowledge of Sexuality Education, Menstrual Hygiene and Utilization of Youth Friendly Services in Ondo State

Abstract

Adolescents face heightened risks related to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) due to early sexual debut, limited knowledge, stigma, and poor access to youth-friendly health services (YFHS). This cross-sectional study assessed awareness, knowledge, and utilization of SRH services among secondary school students in Ondo State, Nigeria. A total of 221 students from four schools—Babcock University High School (BUHS), Wexford College, CAC Grammar School, and Impact High School—were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Findings indicate that awareness of sexuality education (34%) and drug abuse (35%) were low, awareness of youth-friendly services was considerably lower at 4% in some schools. Utilization of youth-friendly clinics was also minimal. Misconceptions about HIV transmission persisted, including beliefs about casual contact. The findings underscore significant gaps between awareness and service utilization, highlighting structural, sociocultural, and stigma-related barriers. The study recommends intensified awareness creation, improved methods of implementation rather than just integration of SRH education into school curricula, and improved availability of adolescent-friendly health services.