The Silent Impact of Pandemic: COVID-19 and Adolescent-Youth Reproductive Health in Acholi Sub-Region in Uganda

Abstract

Abstract
From a gender perspective, this study investigated the consequences of COVID-19 on adolescent and youth reproductive health in Acholi Sub-region, Northern Uganda. The study aimed to: i) analyse the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on adolescent and youth reproductive health and gender relations, ii) explore treatment-seeking behaviours among adolescents and youth, iii) equip health workers with skills to address reproductive health challenges, and iv) enhance their capacity to conduct gender-sensitive research during crises. A qualitative approach and longitudinal design was used, employing one-on-one interviews, community engagement sessions, radio talk shows, and observations. The study involved participants from Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, Reproductive Health Uganda, outreach programs, and urban neighbourhoods, including adolescents, youth, health workers, and key informants. It was conducted across Gulu City, Gulu District, Obongi District, and Adjumani District, encompassing 34 schools, the Northern Uganda Youth Development Centre, Gulu Juvenile Prison, and Gulu University. Findings indicated a significant increase in gender-specific challenges, including a rise in teenage pregnancies, unwanted pregnancies, early marriages, and cross-generational sexual relationships. Male adolescents faced psychological stress due to unemployment and the inability to fulfil societal expectations, while female adolescents disproportionately experienced reproductive health risks. The study concludes that the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Ugandan youth’s reproductive health, with adolescent females experiencing more disempowerment and risky behaviours. The study recommends implementation of targeted and gender-sensitive interventions, strengthening collaboration among health workers, adolescents, youth groups and community leaders, promotion of mental health empowerment programs, as well as continued strengthening of health system responsiveness to youth needs.