Contraceptive Services Available to Unmarried Sexually Active Adolescents
Abstract: Low contraceptive
use amongst unmarried sexually active young men and women presents an ethical
dilemma in Indonesia, particularly in realising reproductive rights as a
fundamental human right. This study aims to address the difficulties in
extending access to family planning for unmarried sexually active youths.
Methods: A review of the laws relating to the provision of family planning was
combined with a secondary data analysis of the 2012 Indonesian Demographic
Health Survey throughout 6 provinces on the island of Java. The sample
population included 5,150 unmarried adolescents, aged 15 to 24 years. The 2012
Indonesian Demographic Health Survey was the first and only survey that
included unmarried young women in Indonesia. The association between subjects
who had 'ever had sex' and three groups of predictors (demographic
characteristics, peer influences, and knowledge of contraceptive methods) were
examined using multivariate logistic regressions. Results:Results of the study
found that subjects who were unmarried but had engaged in sexual activity were
more likely to be those aged 19 to 21 years (OR = 2.36) and 22 to 24 years (OR
= 6.81), of low education status (OR = 2.1), with a boyfriend or girlfriend (OR
= 2.38), and those who approved of pre-marital sex (OR = 8.5). Conclusions:
Results from this research suggest that new interpretations of the Law 52/2009
regarding family planning and Law 36/2009 that prohibits health services to
unmarried sexually active youths are required in order to address the issues
faced by Indonesia's youth
Keywords: adolescent;
contraceptive; contraception; family planning; sexual behaviour; Indonesia
Author: Meiwita Budiharsana
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg170251
