Urban Adolescents: Knowledge About Sexual And Reproductive Health Care

Objective: To identify the knowledge about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care among adolescent participants of the public health care system. Subjects and Methods: Stratified sample of 368 adolescents from low-income and high teenager's pregnancy rate communities in Santiago, Chile. A self-administered, anonymous and confidential survey asked about knowledge, use of services and friendly care characteristics. Results: 52.9% of respondents knew of SRH care and from these, 22.1% had used it. Predictors for service use were: being female, been dating a boyfriend/girlfriend, having received sex education at home and not living with parents. Most participants positively evaluated the SRI I service. Reasons for not seeking SIIR care were: no need it, embarrassment to consult and lack of information on this type of care availability. Conclusions: Low percentage of school adolescents demand SRI I attention. The care provided in the public system is well evaluated. Teens who demand professional attention to solve SHR needs are: women, who are in a relationship and those who have received sex education at home. Furthermore, no need for care, embarrasment and lack of information are factors that affect the consultation.