The Role of Reproductive Counseling in Improving Sexual Health in Community Primary Health Facilities

Abstract

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a crucial aspect of overall health that influences various facets of individuals' lives. In Indonesia, inadequate understanding and limited access to sexual health services, especially in rural areas, remain significant challenges. Reproductive counseling in community primary health facilities has been identified as an effective strategy to address these issues. This study aims to explore the role of reproductive counseling in improving sexual health in community-based primary health settings, focusing on its impact on knowledge, behaviors, and health outcomes. A qualitative literature review methodology was used, analyzing studies published in the last five years, sourced from reliable academic databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed. The findings indicate that reproductive counseling significantly contributes to increasing awareness about contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and healthy family planning. Moreover, the counseling process helps change risky sexual behaviors, particularly among adolescents and young adults. The study also highlights several factors influencing the effectiveness of counseling, including the quality of healthcare providers, availability of resources, cultural stigma, and ongoing community involvement. Despite its proven effectiveness, challenges such as insufficient training of healthcare providers and limited resources hinder the widespread implementation of reproductive counseling. This study emphasizes the need for improved healthcare training and the integration of counseling services into primary health facilities.