Adolescent sexual and reproductive health literacy needs: a sub-national level assessment in Ghana.

This study examines young adolescents' access to and literacy challenges regarding sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information in the Effutu Municipality of Ghana's Central Region. Using focus group discussions with 52 in-school adolescents aged 11–15, the research found limited and predominantly informal sources of SRH information, poor understanding of SRH concepts, contraceptives, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and risky sexual behaviors. Barriers identified include linguistic difficulties with available materials, lack of structured educational resources, digital access limitations, and sociocultural stigma surrounding adolescent sexuality. Despite abstinence being the stated SRH goal, some participants reported sexual activity, underscoring the need for improved, accessible, and culturally sensitive SRH education, including peer education and adolescent-friendly spaces, to enhance health literacy and outcomes in this population.