Barriers to access and use of sexual reproductive health and human immunodeficiency virus services among adolescent girls and young women in Maputo City, Mozambique

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Mozambique face a high risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies, yet face substantial barriers to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and HIV services. This qualitative study explored AGYW experiences in accessing SRHR and HIV care at Zimpeto and Primeiro de Junho Health Facilities (HF) in Maputo between June 12 and 28, 2023, using semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed in NVivo 14 and interpreted using the socio-ecological model. Barriers were mainly institutional and individual. Institutional challenges included negative provider attitudes, long wait times, inaccessible services, limited provider skills, and medication stockouts. Individual barriers included fear of parental discussion, low self-esteem, and apprehension about HIV testing or contraceptives. Interpersonal barriers, such as limited family support, were less prominent. Addressing these barriers through enhanced service quality, adolescent-friendly approaches, and supportive, knowledgeable providers is crucial to improving AGYW access to SRHR and HIV services.