Increasing equality, access to sexual health care

Ghana has made significant progress in many areas of development, but one critical area that still needs to be addressed is sexual health.

Sexual health disparities persist in the country, affecting people of all socio-economic backgrounds.

This article seeks to shed light on existing disparities, investigate the factors that contribute to them, and emphasise the critical need for comprehensive measures to promote sexual health equality and access for all Ghanaians.

Current situation

Despite recent efforts, sexual health remains a contentious issue in Ghana.

Access to appropriate sexual health services and information is particularly difficult for women and marginalised communities.

The existing disparities are exacerbated by a lack of awareness, persistent cultural stigmas, insufficient funding and insufficient training for healthcare providers.

These factors make it difficult for individuals to receive the necessary support and care.

Gender inequality is a major contributor to sexual health disparities, especially in Ghana.

Women and girls frequently have limited decision-making power regarding their reproductive health, which has negative consequences.

The lack of access to contraception, combined with high rates of adolescent pregnancy and unsafe abortions, aggravates the situation.

It is critical to address these gender disparities to achieve sexual health equality. 

STIs, HIV/AIDS prevention

Ghana, like many other countries, faces difficulties in preventing and managing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS.

Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected, including sex workers, men who have sex with men, and young people.

Inadequate sexual education programmes, limited access to healthcare services, and the stigma associated with these infections all work against effective prevention and treatment efforts.

Access to sexual health services remains a major concern in Ghana, particularly in rural areas with inadequate healthcare infrastructure.

As a result of this limitation, access to high-quality sexual health services is limited.

Furthermore, affordability and transportation issues make it difficult for people, particularly those living in remote areas, to access necessary care. 

Sex education

Despite progress, comprehensive sex education programmes in schools are still lacking in Ghana.

The absence of comprehensive, evidence-based education hinders young people's ability to make informed decisions about their sexual health and contributes to the perpetuation of sexual health disparities.

Stigma associated with sexual health topics, such as contraception, STIs and HIV/AIDS, persists in Ghanaian society.

This stigma creates barriers to seeking information, services and support, leading to reduced access to sexual health resources and perpetuating the existing disparities.

Youth-friendly services

There is a need for improved access to youth-friendly sexual health services tailored to the unique needs of young people in Ghana.

Many adolescents and young adults face challenges in accessing confidential and non-judgemental services that address their specific concerns and provide accurate information and support.

To address sexual health disparities in Ghana, a multifaceted approach involving policymakers, healthcare providers, civil society organisations and the community is required.

Notable among these are: 
Implementing comprehensive and evidence-based sex education programmes in schools is crucial.

These programmes should provide accurate information about sexual health, relationships, contraception, STIs and consent.

By empowering young people with knowledge and skills, they can make informed decisions, practice safe behaviours, and have healthier relationships.

Launching awareness campaigns to challenge cultural stigmas surrounding sexual health is essential.

These campaigns should promote open dialogue, encourage non-judgmental attitudes, and foster acceptance.

By reducing stigma, individuals will feel more comfortable seeking information, services, and support, ultimately improving access to sexual health resources.

Infrastructure

Prioritising investment in healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, is necessary to improve access to sexual health services.

This includes establishing well-equipped health facilities, recruiting and training healthcare providers, and ensuring the availability of necessary resources and medications.

Additionally, efforts should be made to improve transportation networks, making it easier for individuals, particularly those in remote regions, to reach healthcare facilities.

Marginalised groups

Special attention should be given to developing and implementing youth-friendly sexual health services that cater to the unique needs of adolescents and young adults.

These services should be confidential, non-judgemental, and accessible, ensuring that young people can seek information, counselling, contraceptives, and STI testing without fear of discrimination.

Effective collaboration among government agencies, non-governmental organisations, healthcare providers, educators and community leaders are essential.

By working together, these stakeholders can pool resources, share expertise and implement comprehensive strategies to address sexual health disparities.

Partnerships can also facilitate the development of policies and programmes that prioritise sexual health rights and allocate adequate funding and resources.

By prioritising comprehensive sex education, reducing stigma, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, providing tailored services and fostering collaboration, Ghana can make significant progress in promoting sexual health equality and ensuring access for all its citizens.

The writer is public health professional.