Adolescent Reproductive Health - MCH Flashcards
What is the age range for adolescents according to WHO?
Adolescents are defined as individuals between the ages of 10 and 19 years.
What are the three developmental characteristics of adolescence?
Biological development, psychological development, and increasing economic independence.
What biological changes occur during adolescence?
Physical changes from puberty to full sexual and reproductive maturity.
What psychological changes occur during adolescence?
Emotional changes due to hormones, increased sex drive, development of abstract thinking.
What social changes occur during adolescence?
Increased independence, questioning of adult authority, and integration into social roles.
What are some common social and emotional changes during puberty?
Development of sexual feelings, curiosity, mood swings, and body image concerns.
Define adolescent sexual and reproductive health.
The physical and emotional well-being of adolescents, including freedom from unwanted pregnancy, STIs, and sexual violence.
Why are adolescents considered important in public health?
Adolescents make up a large portion of the population and their health decisions affect future generations.
What are the major causes of morbidity and mortality in adolescents?
Motor vehicle accidents, violence, suicide, STIs, pregnancy, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
What is the leading cause of death among adolescents globally?
Self-harm (suicide).
What are the major risk factors for adolescent morbidity and mortality?
Behaviour-related issues such as reckless driving, violence, substance abuse, and unprotected sex.
What percentage of the global disease burden has its roots in adolescence?
About 35% of the global burden of disease.
Why are adolescents vulnerable to reproductive health risks?
They experience rapid biological and social changes, engage in risky behaviours, and face inadequate protective mechanisms.
What are some common reproductive health issues among adolescents?
Early pregnancy, STIs, sexual abuse, and lack of access to contraception.
What percentage of births worldwide are to women aged 15-19?
About 11%.
What are the adolescent reproductive health challenges in developing countries?
High rates of coerced sex, unplanned pregnancies, and poor knowledge about reproductive health.
What is the median age of sexual initiation for Nigerian adolescents?
17.2 years for women and 21.7 years for men in Nigeria.
What are the leading adolescent reproductive health issues according to WHO?
Early pregnancy and childbirth, STIs, and sexual violence.
Why is adolescent pregnancy a public health concern?
It is linked to high maternal and infant mortality, school dropout, and economic hardship.
What are the key statistics of teenage childbearing in Nigeria?
19% of teenage girls (15-19) in Nigeria have begun childbearing.
What are the causes of adolescent pregnancy?
Poverty, lack of education, gender inequality, and child marriage.
What are the consequences of adolescent pregnancy?
School dropout, stigma, violence, health complications, and economic hardship.
What are the major causes of child marriage?
Poverty, cultural traditions, and gender inequality.
Which countries have the highest rates of child marriage?
Niger, Chad, Bangladesh, Central African Republic, and Nigeria.