Teenage pregnancies, HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections on the rise in Fiji - Nakolinivalu

Teenage pregnancies, HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections, Urinary Tract Infections and prostate cancer are now on the rise in Fiji.

This has been highlighted by the Reproductive and Family Health Association of Fiji during the consultation meeting on Sexual Reproductive Health between the Association and the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Suva.

Association Manager, Tarai Nakolinivalu says during their visit to Nadarivatu, Ba, Cakaudrove, Serua and Namosi, there were services provided to more than 911 people including teenagers, women, and men of different ages regarding teenage pregnancies, HIV, STIs, prostate cancer and Urinary Tract Infections.

Nakolinivalu says there is also an increase in late bookings among single mothers during pregnancies therefore, she encourages pregnant mothers to make early bookings. She says the Association is also going out to communities and schools in different divisions to educate students and people on these issues and solve such problems.

The Manager says they are working closely with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Health and school students in creating awareness programs in the rural and urban areas.

Nakolinivalu encourages people not to be shy and open up to their families and consultants to discuss such issues in solving these problems and get tested if they notice any symptoms of reproductive health problems.