Addressing Adolescents’ Sexual and Reproductive Health Needs in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract: With two-thirds of its population under 30, Pakistan is one of the youngest nations in the world. Adolescents and youth are critical to the country's socio-economic development, yet their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) remain neglected. This study based on the peer-to-peer research methodology conducted during March to June 2024 highlights the significant knowledge gap among adolescents regarding SRHR, corroborating findings from similar research in Bahawalpur and Gilgit-Baltistan. Many adolescents, particularly in rural areas, lack basic awareness of SRHR, leaving them vulnerable to negative health outcomes. Cultural stigmas and societal taboos surrounding sexuality and reproductive health further hinder access to vital SRHR services. Adolescents report hesitancy in approaching healthcare providers due to fear of judgment, exacerbating their challenges in obtaining care.

Gender and socio-economic disparities deepen these vulnerabilities, with rural adolescents, especially girls, facing greater barriers to SRHR knowledge and services compared to their urban peers. Without formal education or reliable sources, many adolescents turn to peers or the internet for information, which can be inaccurate or incomplete. The study identifies key areas for improvement, including the need for age-appropriate SRHR education, enhanced parental and teacher involvement in SRHR education, and more accessible, stigma-free health services.

To address these challenges, Pakistan must prioritize adolescent-centric interventions. Comprehensive sex education programs in schools, coupled with efforts to reduce cultural biases in healthcare, are essential for improving SRHR knowledge and service delivery. These interventions will not only safeguard adolescents' health but also contribute to the nation’s socio-economic growth by empowering youth to make informed health decisions.