Young Ghanaians are navigating sexual and reproductive health challenges in an environment shaped by misinformation, societal pressure, and limited access to youth-friendly services. For many, peers, social media, and online forums have become the primary sources of guidance, spaces that often expose them to myths and dangerous misconceptions.
Ama (not her real name), a university student, described her struggle to access reliable information.
“I didn’t know where to ask questions safely. Most of my friends also rely on what they see online, which isn’t always accurate.”
Her experience is far from isolated. Research shows that a significant number of young Ghanaians rely on informal sources for sexual and reproductive health information. Health experts warn that this leaves youth vulnerable to misinformation about contraception, sexually transmitted infections, and reproductive rights.
Franca (not her real name), another young adult, explained the confusion this creates. “Sometimes the advice you get online contradicts what your friends tell you. You end up not knowing what’s true or safe.”
But misinformation is only part of the problem.
Many young people face structural and social barriers when seeking care. Clinics offering adolescent-friendly services remain limited, particularly outside major cities. Even where such services exist, fear of judgment is a powerful deterrent. “Even when services exist, you feel like people are watching you or judging you for asking questions,” Ama said.
For too many youth, hospitals are not safe spaces — they are places of discomfort and fear. A female university student in Accra recounted her experience seeking family planning services at a public hospital.
“I was asked why I needed contraception when I wasn’t married. The nurse spoke loudly and people stared. I left without getting any help.”
Several young people shared similar experiences. Some reported being questioned about their sexual activity, scolded for requesting contraception, or told to return with a partner before receiving care. Others said they were turned away entirely.
“Once they see you’re young, the attitude changes. You’re treated like you’ve done something wrong,” one interviewee said.
Such encounters have consequences. Fear of judgment discourages many young people from returning to health facilities after an initial negative experience. Some delay seeking care. Others use contraceptives incorrectly or avoid family planning altogether. Many turn to pharmacies without proper guidance or rely on unverified online advice.
Despite national policies promoting adolescent-friendly health services, awareness remains low. Many young people are unaware these services exist, and those who are often find them inaccessible in practice. Outside major urban centers, the challenge is even more pronounced, with limited privacy and few alternatives if turned away.
Health professionals warn that these systemic barriers contribute to unintended pregnancies, untreated infections, and risky behaviors among young people.
In response, non-governmental organizations and youth centers are stepping in to bridge the gap. Programs such as the Marie Stopes Youth Health Initiative offer workshops, counseling, and digital platforms where young people can seek information without fear of judgment.
“Our goal is to create an environment where young people can speak freely, learn accurately, and make informed choices,” a nurse at Marie Stopes Ghana explained.
Online campaigns and peer-led education groups are also expanding conversations around consent, healthy relationships, and emotional well-being.
A youth psychologist underscored what is at stake. “Young people make better decisions when they have access to reliable information. Awareness campaigns, youth-friendly clinics, and mentorship programs are critical to ensuring safe sexual health practices.”
There are signs of progress. Youth-led initiatives are gaining momentum. Schools are gradually strengthening sexual health education. NGOs are expanding outreach efforts.
But progress remains uneven.
At its core, this is a crisis of access and dignity. Young people are asking for accurate information, protection, and autonomy over their bodies. What they often receive instead is silence or shame.
Until health facilities become spaces where young people can seek care without fear of judgment, many Ghanaian youth will continue to navigate their sexual health through trial, error, and secrecy — a risk the country can no longer afford to ignore.
The writer, Keziah Porepeya Nsoh is an Adolescent Health Advocate and a Media Practitioner
