The Sexual and Reproductive Health Needs of Very Young Adolescents Aged 10–14 in Developing Countries: What Does the Evidence Show?

Publish Year
2017
Publisher
Guttmacher Institute
Author Name
Woog V. and Kagesten A.
Description

This report draws on analyses of national survey data and literature review results to provide an overview of the evidence on key aspects of sexual and reproductive health among very young adolescents aged 10–14 living in developing regions. Analyses showed that while most young adolescents report never having experienced sexual intercourse, some had begun to explore non-coital sexual activities. Many young adolescents who had experienced sexual intercourse did so as a result of coercion or violence. Between 3-23% of adolescent girls and 0-13% adolescent boys, ages 13-17, reported experiencing sexual violence in the past year. Delivering comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), reducing levels of child marriage and sexual violence, emphasizing equitable gender norms, providing financial incentives for education are ways the authors suggest to improve the sexual and reproductive health needs of very young adolescents.