Adolescents’ knowledge and perception of sexual and reproductive health rights in Dzelukope, Keta

Abstract

This study investigated adolescents’ knowledge and perceptions of sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) in Dzelukope, Keta, Ghana. Adolescents constitute a crucial segment of the population, yet they face barriers in exercising their rights due to cultural taboos, inadequate education, and limited access to health services. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of adolescents’ experiences. Quantitatively, a cross-sectional design was employed, with a proportional stratified sampling strategy followed by simple random sampling. A total of 209 adolescents aged 15 to 19 years participated, yielding a response rate of 96.8%. Qualitatively, focus group discussions and interviews with selected adolescents were conducted to capture deeper insights into perceptions and lived experiences. The findings revealed that while awareness of general human rights was relatively high, significant gaps remained in adolescents’ knowledge of specific reproductive health rights. Radio and peers emerged as the dominant sources of information, whereas health professionals played only a marginal role. Although respondents were aware of rights violations such as forced sex, early marriage, and denial of services, fewer than half expressed the ability to resist partners’ reproductive decisions, reflecting persistent gender inequalities. Age and educational attainment were strongly associated with knowledge of SRHR, while sex and religious affiliation showed weaker associations. The qualitative data further highlighted stigma, parental silence, and fear of discrimination as key barriers to accessing accurate information and services. The study recommended intensifying reproductive health education tailored to adolescents through mass media, schools, and digital platforms, alongside active parent and community engagement. It also advocated strengthening youth-friendly health services, integrating SRHR and human rights into school curricula, and resourcing protective institutions such as the Police Service and DOVVSU. By fostering an enabling environment that promotes knowledge, empowerment, and gender equity, the study aimed to contribute to adolescent well-being and the improvement of public health outcomes in Ghana.