Knowledge and Attitudes of In-School Adolescents Toward Reproductive Health in Ogun State

Reproductive health knowledge and positive attitudes among adolescents are essential prerequisites for responsible sexual behaviour and the prevention of associated health risks. This study assesses the level of reproductive health knowledge and the prevailing attitudes of in-school adolescents in Ogun State, South West Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 350 senior secondary school students selected through stratified random sampling across six schools in three local government areas. A validated self-administered questionnaire covering reproductive anatomy, contraception, sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, and adolescent rights was used for data collection. Data were analysed using frequency distributions, percentages, and chi-square tests of association. Results indicate that while 68 percent of respondents demonstrate awareness of at least one sexually transmitted infection, comprehensive knowledge of contraception and safe sexual practices remains inadequate, particularly among students in rural school locations. Female students exhibit more cautious attitudes toward premarital sexual activity compared to their male counterparts. Peer influence and social media are identified as the most common sources of reproductive health information, underscoring the need for structured school-based health education. Recommendations include integrating comprehensive reproductive health content into the health education curriculum, training teachers to deliver age-appropriate lessons confidently, and establishing school health clubs as supplementary information channels. This research contributes to the evidence base for adolescent health programming in South West Nigeria. Keywords: reproductive health, adolescents, knowledge, attitudes, Ogun State