Our magazine recently had the chance to engage with young people involved in our SRHR youth empowerment programs. In a refreshing and honest conversation, they tackled the common myths and misconceptions surrounding sexual reproductive health, shedding light on the realities they face and the knowledge gaps that need to be addressed.
Accurate information is essential because many young people may start being sexually active earlier than expected. This emphasizes the importance of having open conversations about sex, relationships, and reproductive health with both girls and boys. Educating young people on these topics can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). NIYONSHUTI PACIFIQUE
In my Muslim community, sexual reproductive health isn’t openly taught, as it’s viewed as a sacred subject. One common misconception I learned was that acne and breast size are linked to sexual activity, which isn’t true at all! Thinking back, I wasn’t comfortable talking to my mom about periods. I asked classmates or even our helper instead. I believe parents should be friends with their kids so they can talk openly about these things. This prevents them from seeking information elsewhere, which could lead to misinformation and teenage pregnancy.ISINGIZWE MUVANDIMWE ALIDA
Many young people have misconceptions about reproductive health. They might think a woman can get pregnant at any time or that not having their period means there is no pregnancy risk. There is a need for awareness about the potential for contracting transmitted diseases during unprotected sex. PATRICK IGABE
After the training, I realized that reproductive health isn’t just a “girls’ thing”. It’s equally important for boys to understand their sexual and reproductive health and rights. It’s not just about preventing pregnancy for girls; it’s about making informed choices and protecting our lives. HIRWA JEAN LUC
I used to have misconceptions about reproductive health, thinking that women couldn’t get pregnant during their periods and that pregnancy wasn’t possible before a woman’s first period. However, our training sessions helped clear up these misunderstandings. Young people often turn to unreliable sources for information, which can lead to misinformation and poor decision-making. With proper education and guidance, we can learn to manage our impulses and make better choices in the future. UWANYIRIMPUHWE FAUSTINE
I previously held misconceptions about reproductive health, believing women couldn’t get pregnant during their periods and that pregnancy wasn’t possible before a woman’s first period. However, our training sessions dispelled these inaccurate ideas. Young people often seek information from unreliable sources, leading to misinformation and potentially poor decisions. With proper education and guidance, we can learn to manage impulses and make better decisions in the future. UMUHOZA VANESSA
Having grown up in homeless shelters since I was six, I didn’t have the chance to learn about reproductive health from my family. My parents’ separation and their conflicting advice only added to my confusion. However, learning about sexual and reproductive health in a group setting was comforting. Given my lack of consistent parental guidance, I believe that the government and other stakeholders should work to provide reproductive health education to children, especially those who do not receive this support at home. NIYIBIZI NASILI
When I first got my period, I felt too shy to talk to my mom, and she seemed uncomfortable as well. She just told me to ask my sister about pads. I strongly believe that parents should be more open and communicative with their children about reproductive health. It’s essential for young people like me to learn about these topics, as many of us don’t realize that pregnancy can occur before a girl’s first period. Young people can also play a role in educating peers about reproductive health. If a parent isn’t available or feels uncomfortable, a sibling can be a great source of support. JOLIE MUREKATETE
