11 Reproductive Health Facts from India and Beyond That Need More Awareness

7. Adolescent reproductive health needs better information and safe services

Young people need accurate information and confidential services, but many adolescents lack access to age-appropriate sexual and reproductive health education in their schools and communities. Cultural sensitivities and local norms often limit classroom discussion, leaving young people to rely on peers or internet sources of mixed quality. Early marriage and early pregnancy remain realities in some regions, creating health risks for young mothers and their babies. Youth-friendly clinics, training for providers on confidentiality, and community dialogues that include parents and elders can open safe spaces for young people to ask questions and seek care. Practical programs combine school-based curricula with out-of-school outreach and helplines so adolescents who are not in formal education aren’t left behind. Ensuring access to contraception for those who need it, along with counseling that respects privacy, reduces the risks of unsafe abortions and early motherhood, and helps young people plan their futures with greater control and information.