GEORGE NEWS - Community health workers from Blanco had an outreach to youth in Golden Valley in June to raise awareness on sexual and reproductive health.
The workers informed the youngsters they met on the range of contraceptive methods available and encouraged the use of contraceptives in addition to condoms every time during sexual intercourse to protect them from unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
They also touched on voluntary male medical circumcision to help prevent the acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Information packages were shared and youngsters were referred to the Blanco health facility for contraception.
"It was good to hear that the young boys knew what medical male circumcision was and where to go for the services," said health promoter Claudel Draai.
"The health workers also discussed the dangers of cigarettes, dagga and hookah pipes with the youngsters. We can only inform them of the dangers of using any form of drugs and hope that they will make an informed decision regarding their health."
Emphasis was specifically on the importance of visiting the nearest healthcare facility when not feeling well and going for sexual reproductive health services when needed.
Western Cape Government Health and Wellness invites youth to make use of its services through their local clinic. Said operational manager Barinda van der Merwe, "We welcome youth to Blanco clinic to make use of the services on offer. These include family planning, HIV and Aids and TB screening and testing, mental health services, substance abuse and health promotion. We have a dedicated time slot from 14:00 to 16:00 for youth, but you are welcome to visit us throughout the day."
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