DETERMINATION OF THE PREFERRED APPROACHES FOR PROVIDING YOUTH-FRIENDLY SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES AMONG COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSES IN OREDO AND UGBEKUN COMMUNITIES

Abstract

This study investigates the preferred approaches for delivering youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in Oredo and Ugbekun communities, incorporating perspectives from both youth (community members) and frontline providers (Community Health Nurses - CHNs). The provision of adolescent and youth-friendly health services (AYFHS) is critical for addressing the high rates of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unmet contraceptive needs among Nigerian youth. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research found significant alignment and some divergence in preferences between youth and nurses. Youths strongly favored confidentiality, non-judgmental attitudes, reduced cost, convenient hours, and separate service spaces from adults to ensure privacy and comfort. CHNs recognized these needs but emphasized challenges like resource constraints, cultural barriers in discussing SRH, and the need for specific training in adolescent counselling. The study concludes that a multi-pronged strategy integrating infrastructural adjustments, targeted training for providers, and community sensitization is essential for effective service delivery. These findings underscore the importance of participatory models in designing SRH services, as advocated by the WHO’s Global Standards for Quality Healthcare Services for Adolescents.