-“Not just about the pump” - Providing Sexual- and Reproductive Health information to adolescents with heart disease

Purpose More adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD) are reaching adulthood and reproductive age. They face challenges transitioning from pediatric to adult health care and need to manage their health and developmental goals. The 2030 Agenda emphasizes a holistic approach to sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), aiming to provide accessible information to adolescents. Health care providers (HCPs) must offer appropriate information about CHD and SRHR issues. This study aimed to describe HCPs experiences of informing adolescents with heart disease about SRH. Methods An explorative study with a descriptive design using semi-structured interviews. The qualitative content analysis method by Graneheim and Lundman was used to analyze the data. Results The interviews provided a wealth of data, revealing different opinions and experiences. The analysis resulted in four main categories: (1) organizational culture, (2) health care professionals’ perception of adolescents’ needs, (3) skills and ability are essential, and (4) parents’ influence on conversation. Conclusion Discussing SRH is universally accepted among HCPs, but prioritization varies. HCPs must customize information, considering the timing and setting of the conversation. Enhanced knowledge and skills in SRH are essential, including strategies to overcome barriers and respectfully involve parents. Crucially, adolescents’ rights to SRH information must always be upheld.