An analysis of the management of adolescents' reproductive health services in the Mafikeng area, North West

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyse management of adolescents' reproductive health services in the North West Province with specific focus on the Mafikeng area, by checking as to whether target group is being reached and to finally create an environment in the youth centre that would allow adolescents to make informed choices. Stratified random sampling using a youth centre in Mafikeng as a stratum was used. Within the youth centre judgemental sampling was used whereby youth accessing the centre between ages of 10 and 24 was targeted. From the study perceptions, expenences and attitudes of youth were explored m trying to find out why are there some adolescents who do not utilise the services. The study also shown that most youth knew about the centre. Some of whom were satisfied about the services rendered; whilst on the other hand others were not satisfied about the service. Attitudes of service providers still need to be modified and changed to accommodate youth. Reproductive health rights of youth are still not taken into consideration. Parents are still not communicating with their children at an early age of their lives. The study also revealed that workshops have got no follow up. It is recommended that: * Parents should be involved in the services rendered at the youth centre so as to promote communication between them and their children.

* Service providers should be approachable and understand youth * A nurse should always be available at the youth centre. * The centre should be centrally located for easy access. * More awareness about youth centre should be done and target group be reached. * Youth educator especially that she is a teacher not a nurse, should work very close with the school health nurses. * There should be a well established referral system from clinics to the youth centre, and from the youth centre to the clinics and the hospital.