Today is World Sexual and Reproductive Awareness Day, a date that reminds us of the importance of open discussion, education and prevention when it comes to the health of children and adolescents. Although information is more accessible today than ever, experts warn that young people are often exposed to unreliable sources, which is why the role of the health system and family is crucial. In Montenegro, pediatric and adolescent gynecology is handled by Dr. Željka Stevović, a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics and a subspecialist in endocrinology with a narrow specialization in pediatric endocrinology. As the only doctor in the country who has dedicated herself entirely to this field, every Friday at the Podgorica Health Center, she receives girls and adolescents, providing them with professional help, advice and support during a sensitive period of growing up.
"When we talk about sexual and reproductive health, we are talking about the population aged ten to nineteen. This is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood, marked by intense physical, psychological, emotional and sexual development. Education about safe sexual relations, regular check-ups and timely information are the foundation of a healthy reproductive life," emphasized Dr. Stevović, appearing on Boje jutra on TV Vijesti.
Dr. Stevović emphasizes that the first visit to the gynecologist at this age does not involve a classic examination, but rather a conversation and information.
"The first meeting should be a conversation about genital hygiene, keeping a menstrual calendar, the importance of proper nutrition, physical activity, and sleep hygiene. Sleep is extremely important – girls at that age should sleep between eight and ten hours every night," she points out.
Registration with the chosen gynecologist begins with the first menstruation.
"The first two to three years after getting your period, when its rhythm is established, is the right time for the first visit. It is important for girls to gain confidence and be motivated to come independently later," says the doctor.
It specifically emphasizes that girls aged 16 can come for an examination alone, without the presence of their parents, and that doctors are obliged to provide them with a confidential conversation.
The youth counseling center, in addition to working in the clinic, also conducts education in schools. "We contact school administrations and offer topics. We most often work with students in the final grades of elementary schools and the first two grades of high school. This is the period when it is most important to lay a healthy foundation," says Dr. Stevović.
However, each lesson must be approved by parents, which sometimes presents an obstacle.
"It happens that schools refuse a lecture due to lack of parental consent. In that case, we work with smaller groups, like the student parliament, but I believe that this kind of education should be available to everyone, without filters."
When asked what is key in preventing sexually transmitted infections, Dr. Stevović is clear:
"It is important to delay first sexual intercourse and be aware of the risks, especially before the age of 16. Promiscuity and a larger number of partners significantly increase the risk of infections. Condoms are indispensable in protecting against sexually transmitted diseases, while oral contraception protects against unwanted pregnancy, but not against infections."
She also warns of the long-term consequences of inadequate reproductive health care, including the increase in infertility problems.
Dr. Stevović points out that she has recently witnessed an increased number of pregnancies among girls aged 15 and 16.
"These are not only environments of lower socioeconomic status, but also urban environments. Irregular cycles in the early years often make it difficult to recognize pregnancy in time. When the diagnosis is made late, the pregnancy continues and is managed as high-risk."
Teenage pregnancies carry increased risks for both mother and baby, and often end in cesarean section.
"That's why it's important to talk about the menstrual cycle, contraception, and protection in a timely manner."
Speaking about the role of parents, Dr. Stevović emphasizes that the family is the foundation of everything.
"No matter how sensitive the topic, parents should talk to their children. However, every child has the right to a confidential conversation with a doctor. Sometimes children open up more easily to a specialist than to a parent, and this should be understood."
In the end, the message is clear: education must start earlier and become systemic.
"We can no longer wait for problems to arise. These topics need to be introduced as part of mandatory education from the seventh and eighth grades. Schools and parents need to be partners in the healthcare system. Only in this way can we build healthier generations."
Bonus video:
