Social norms hinder uptake of contraceptives among youth

Social norms hinder uptake of contraceptives among youth (Photo: iStock)

Adolescence is a transformative phase of life, marked by physical, emotional and social changes. For millions of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Kenya, this period is clouded by systemic barriers that limit access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR). Social norms contribute to the creation of these barriers by defining what is considered "acceptable," which in turn fosters harmful practices, limits personal freedom, and reduces access to necessary health services.

According to United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF-Kenya), a significant percentage of adolescent girls aged 15 and 19 years have experienced pregnancy, with rates in some counties reaching as high as 50 per cent. This highlights the prevalence of early sexual activity among Kenyan adolescents, compounded by limited access to contraceptive methods and reproductive health education.