Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is essential for overall well-being and human rights. In Uganda, where reproductive health challenges such as teenage pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and high fertility rates persist, ensuring access to SRH services is crucial for empowering individuals and improving public health outcomes.

Teenage Pregnancy: A Pressing Concern

Uganda has one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates in sub-Saharan Africa, with 25% of girls aged 15-19 already mothers or pregnant with their first child. Teenage pregnancy is associated with significant health risks for both mother and child, including increased rates of maternal mortality, low birth weight, and neonatal mortality.

Efforts to address teenage pregnancy in Uganda focus on providing comprehensive sex education, increasing access to contraception, and supporting young mothers. Community-based programs, such as peer education and mentorship, are also vital in helping young people make informed decisions about their sexual health.

Access to Contraception and Safe Abortion

Access to contraception is a key component of reproductive health, allowing individuals to plan their families and prevent unintended pregnancies. However, in Uganda, access to modern contraceptive methods remains limited, particularly in rural areas. Efforts to increase access include community outreach, the integration of SRH services into primary healthcare, and the removal of barriers to contraception.

Unsafe abortion is another significant challenge in Uganda, where restrictive abortion laws contribute to high rates of maternal mortality. Advocacy for safe abortion services, as well as the provision of post-abortion care, is critical in protecting the health and rights of women.

Did You Know?
In Uganda, only 39% of women aged 15-49 use modern contraception, and unsafe abortions account for 18% of maternal deaths.