Sexual and reproductive health of adolescents and young people in the Gambia: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: in Gambia, adolescents and young people make up 32% of the national population. Observations indicate that this population group lacks access to quality information and services on sexual and reproductive health. This systematic review explored sexual and reproductive health indicators for adolescents and young people in Gambia.

Methods: published studies on sexual and reproductive health indicators were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar and African Journals Online. Moreover, national reference documents containing relevant in-country data on adolescents and young people's sexual and reproductive health were also collected and reviewed. Search terms for published studies focused on modern contraceptive and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) prevalence rates, availability and accessibility to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and satisfaction levels with SRH services among adolescents and young people (aged 10-24 years).

Results: the review showed that contraceptive prevalence rates among adolescents and young people in Gambia ranged from 7% to 9%. Reasons for low contraceptive prevalence among adolescents and young people included limited knowledge and access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, provider attitudes, stigma, shame, lack of money and cultural and religious misconceptions associated with contraception. Overall, the review found limited information on STI prevalence among adolescents and young people, with only a single published study reporting a prevalence rate of 8.4%. In addition, inadequate counseling and complaints related to physical environmentprocess of providing sexual and reproductive health services and information were significant factors associated with satisfaction with SRH services among adolescents and young people.

Conclusion: this review provides important baseline data that may be useful for policymakers and program managers to improve adolescents and young people's sexual and reproductive health in Gambia.