Legal and Ethical Review of Adolescent Reproductive Health Services in East Aceh

Abstract

Adolescent reproductive health services are a crucial issue in national health development, especially in areas that have strong social, cultural, and religious characteristics such as East Aceh Regency. Adolescents' lack of knowledge about reproductive health, as well as lack of access to adolescent-friendly health services, are an important background in this study. This study aims to analyze the implementation of reproductive health services for adolescents in East Aceh from a legal and ethical perspective, and assess the extent to which the principles of protection of adolescent health rights are carried out in accordance with local regulations and religious norms. This study uses a qualitative method with a juridical-sociological approach. Data was obtained through in-depth interviews with health workers, adolescents, religious leaders, and regional policy makers, as well as documentation of laws and regulations and ethical guidelines for health services. Data analysis was carried out in an analytical descriptive manner by considering positive legal norms and medical ethical principles. The results of the study show that although there are national regulations that guarantee the right to reproductive health of adolescents, its implementation in East Aceh faces various obstacles, such as cultural resistance, limited trained medical personnel, and lack of public understanding of the urgency of reproductive health education. From a legal perspective, there is a gap between national policy and local qanun, while ethically, health services still often clash with the conservative values of local communities. In conclusion, adolescent reproductive health services in East Aceh still need to be improved through an interdisciplinary approach that harmonizes aspects of national law, local values, and principles of medical ethics. There is a need for cross-sector education and strengthening the capacity of medical personnel so that the services provided are not only in accordance with regulations, but also respect regional socio-cultural values.