Saúde reprodutiva na adolescência: comunicação, funcionalidade da família e comportamento preventivo

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the provision and effectiveness of family planning in medium-sized municipality, as well as correlating teenagers' sexual behavior to social variables, access to information and family functionality. METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on a random sample of 361 female adolescents, enrolled at public schools in the municipality. Data were collected through structured questionnaire and analyzed using Epi-Info, version 3.5. To classify the social class, the Graffar Test was used and the Family APGAR for the family functionality. For analysis purposes, in the last case, the comparison was made between the two extremes: functional families with severely dysfunctional families. Descriptive analysis and inference of associations through the prevalence ratio (PR) and Odds Ratio (OR) were performed, as well as the confidence interval (95%CI) and Fisher's Exact Test. RESULTS: There was a significant association between family functionality, social class, level of teenagers' information and use of contraceptives. The family APGAR proved to be predictor of the sexual and reproductive behavior. Interfamily communication was associated with safe behavior and dialogue between sexual partners also reduces the risk of unexpected pregnancy. It was also found that the local health services network does not have programs or even reliable information for teenagers. CONCLUSION: Health actions that strengthen the family structure are very important in what concerns teenagers' health. Public policies focusing on the integration of teenagers' education and health are essential for a comprehensive care for the adolescent.