Perspectives On Sexual And Reproductive Health: Adolescents With Cystic Fibrosis in Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated what adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) thought about sexual and reproductive health (SRH).

Study Design: This study adopted a descriptive research design.

Place and Duration: The study was conducted between June 2021 and September 2021 through the CF Society of CF patients, available online.

Material and Method: The sample consisted of 65 adolescents with CF between the ages of 14 and 21. Data were collected online using a personal information form and a Sexual and Reproductive Health Questionnaire (SRHQ).

Results: More than half of the participants were men (53%). Less than a quarter of the participants received ventilatory support (14%). 64% of adolescents are concerned about infertility and this anxiety was found to be statistically significantly higher in males (p=0.002). 41 participants believed that CF would complicate their sex lives (63%). 42 participants recommended that hospitals integrate SRH into routine CF follow-up programs (64%). 42 participants were concerned about infertility (64%).

The knowledge level of males about sexually transmitted diseases is statistically significantly higher than that of females (p=0.025). In females; Sexually transmitted diseases (p=0.009), family planning (p=0.036) and requesting education about pregnancy (p=0.005) were found to be statistically significantly higher than males.

Conclusion: Adolescents believe that CF will affect their SRH. They are particularly concerned about problems related to puberty, sex life, and pregnancy. Authorities should develop holistic and family-centered programs to integrate sexuality into nursing care. Healthcare professionals should raise adolescents’ awareness of SRH.