Barriers to access and utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among young Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh
摘要
Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a critical concern for young people in humanitarian settings, who face heightened vulnerability due to displacement and restricted access to care. This study examined barriers to SRH service access and utilization among young Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, focusing on health system constraints and sociocultural norms.
MethodsA qualitative study was conducted between May and July 2021, consisting of in-depth interviews with 12 young Rohingya refugees and informal conversations with 7 service providers. The data were analyzed thematically using Atlas-ti qualitative analysis software.
ResultsYoung people reported relying on friends, cousins, and community health educators for SRH-related information and services. Young people said it was easier for married people to obtain SRH services than for sexually active unmarried people. Limited healthcare infrastructure, crowded facilities, and trust issues affected service quality, suggesting the need for resource improvements. Conservative social structures and stigma around sexual activity and SRH limited young people’s efforts to seek out SRH services. Half of the participants raised concerns about the limited operating hours of health posts and distant field hospitals, especially at night or in the afternoon. Self-identified male participants exhibited reduced inclination for SRH services and information, and commonly held the belief that sexually transmitted infections could be managed easily without consulting service providers. Service providers also emphasized the low utilization of facility-based services by men and the prevalence of misconceptions regarding sexually transmitted infections.
ConclusionSubstantial barriers limit SRH service access for young Rohingya refugees, especially unmarried individuals. Addressing these gaps requires services tailored to marital status, gender, age, and prevailing community norms.