This paper presents baseline findings from a project that is evaluating the impact of adolescent reproductive health interventions within two rural Burkina Faso communities. The interventions were developed based upon an intensive process of community participation. The findings are based upon both quantitative and qualitative data. Both general data similar for both study sites and data targeted to interventions particular to each of the sites will be presented. A random household survey was conducted with 134 female and male adolescents ages 13-24 years and analysis was conducted using SPSS. Focus group discussions were held in each site separately with male and female adolescent, and male and female parents. Individual interviews were held with several traditional health practitioners in each site as well.
Findings show that 39% of adolescents surveyed reported having had intercourse and the average age of first intercourse is 17.4 years. Focus groups revealed that pre-marital pregnancy is a social taboo seen to dishonor both the family and the community and that most often the young woman is driven out of the community. 17% of adolescents surveyed stated that they would attempt abortion if faced with a pre-marital pregnancy. Concerning female genital cutting, a fairly widespread practice in Burkina Faso, 32% of females interviewed reported that they had undergone the practice. Concerning health seeking behavior, the majority of adolescents surveyed said that they prefer traditional healers over modern health services. The challenges of conducting a multi-faceted evaluation amidst language barriers, geographical distances and a limited budget will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: Participants in this session will acquire an understanding of adolescent reproductive health levels and trends within two rural community settings. At the conclusion of the session the participant will be able to: 1) Identify and compare general reproductive health data concerning adolescent knowledge and practices 2) Describe specific indicators to be used to evaluate adolescent reproductive health interventions particular to each community
Keywords: Adolescents, International, Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.