by
Prof. Maria Lourdes E. Cantor, Ed.D. | Prof. Florence C. Cawaon, Ed.D.
Prof. Josefina S. Esguerra, Ed.D. | Prof. Esmeralda Gatchallan, MACT
Prof. Veronica S. Garcia, Ph.D. | Prof. Janice Kaylyn K. Lonogan, Ed.D.
Prof. Benilda Z. Narcelles, Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
Adolescence is a period of transition, exploration, and opportunities. At this time, adolescents typically are poorly informed on how to protect their sexual health. Adolescents therefore, are vulnerable and are at high risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, unintended pregnancy, and other health consequences that can affect their future and the future of their communities. This study focuses on the reproductive health status of Filipino adolescents, specifically adolescent students of the University of Baguio. It specifically dealt with the perspectives regarding reproductive health among college students of the University of Baguio, specifically the level of awareness on adolescent reproductive health; the attitude of the students regarding pre-marital sex , early marriage and teenage pregnancy; and the extent of influence of identified factors on the students’ attitude towards adolescent reproductive health. Among the listed issues, the college students were fully aware of a large number of abortions among adolescents. The vulnerability of the students was due to sexual coercion and violence. An overall weighted mean of awareness regarding adolescent reproductive health is 3.24, interpreted as moderately aware. In terms of attitude, UB college students generally disagree to premarital sex. The UB students also manifest a negative attitude with respect to early marriage and teenage pregnancy. They specifically agree that teenage pregnancy, if unwanted or unplanned, often results to abortion and endangers the life of young girls. Of the identified clusters of factors influencing students’ attitudes toward adolescent reproductive health, the most influential indicator falls under the cluster of media and peer group. The results of the study poses a challenge to academic personnel in reaching out to young people and helping them maintain adolescent reproductive health by including the topic in more subjects in college. The conduct of lectures and seminars can also increase the awareness of the students.
Source: UB Research Journal, Vol. XXXI, No. 1, January – June 2007
