Barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health services and their association with teenage pregnancy

Alarcón San Miguel P.S.; Ochoa Loayza H.O.; Trujillo Loja V.A.; Desposorio Robles K.J.; Vela-Ruiz J. · Revista de Obstetricia y Ginecologia de Venezuela (2026) · DOI: 10.51288/00860212

Resumen

Objective: To synthesize recent evidence on the obstacles that limit access to sexual and reproductive health services and their link with the occurrence of early pregnancies. Methods: A systematic review of the literature (2015–2025) was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, and Google Scholar, using MeSH and DeCS terms on adolescence, sexual health, reproductive health, and pregnancy, and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The literature reviewed describes personal, family, sociocultural, and structural barriers that hinder adolescents’ access to sexual and reproductive health services. Among the most frequently mentioned are lack of knowledge about contraceptive methods, lack of reliable guidance, limited knowledge about available services, embarrassment or fear of seeking care, and social stigma. In addition, distance to centers and the limited availability of services tailored to young people reduce effective coverage. Evidence suggests that comprehensive sexuality education, intersectoral interventions, and the availability of accessible and respectful services improve access and contribute to reducing early pregnancies. Conclusions: Multidimensional limitations that restrict sexual and reproductive health care for adolescents persist; expanding sexuality education, strengthening adequate services, and promoting coordinated strategies are key to reducing early pregnancy.

Instituciones: Universidad Ricardo Palma