Assessing Health Care Professionals' Attitude towards Youth-Friendly Reproductive Health Services in Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Reproductive health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, in all matters relating to the reproductive system and its functions and processes. Reproductive health services encompass a range of healthcare interventions that aim to ensure the well-being of individuals regarding their reproductive systems. These services include family planning, sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and treatment, maternal health care, and education on sexual health. Objective: The main objective of the study was to assess health workers’ attitudes toward providing reproductive health services to unmarried youths in selected hospitals in Ogbomoso. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, targeting nurses directly involved in patient care across various departments in selected hospitals willing to participate in the study, selected by simple random sampling. The data collected were analysed using the statistical computer package SPSS version 26.  Descriptive statistics were performed, and results were presented using frequency tables and pie charts. Results: Among the 132 respondents, 67% were female. The findings revealed that healthcare workers generally held positive attitudes (like supportive behaviours, non-judgmental communication, or a willingness to provide services) toward adolescent reproductive health services. Notably, 81% of respondents strongly agreed that adolescents should have access to confidential reproductive health services without parental consent. Furthermore, 85% of respondents strongly supported youth-friendly services, emphasizing their role in reducing unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study shows that 74% of respondents reported inadequate training, which limits their ability to address the unique needs of adolescents. Cultural and societal norms were identified as major barriers to providing adolescent healthcare. Conclusion: The study concludes that healthcare workers’ attitudes significantly influence the accessibility and effectiveness of reproductive health services for youths. The findings highlight the necessity for culturally sensitive training programs and policy reforms to improve youth access to reproductive health services.