Abstract

SOSA-SANCHEZ, Itzel Adriana. “I’m ashamed”: gender, adultcentrism and sexual and reproductive health of teenagers in Morelos, Mexico. Alteridades [online]. 2025, vol.35, n.70, pp.117-128.  Epub Oct 24, 2025. ISSN 2448-850X.  https://doi.org/10.24275/vbvf6923.

In Mexico, contraceptive use among adolescents remains insufficient. The objective of this article is to explore the obstacles that restrict contraception and the use of sexual and reproductive health services among adolescents. To this end, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, providing evidence that highlights the articulation and impact of gendered sexuality mechanisms and adult-centrism on prevention practices. The research results identify the polysemic and contextual definition of risks in sexuality, sexual double standards, and adult-centrism as significant obstacles to prevention. This implies that prevention practices are influenced by diverse and sometimes contradictory discourses on sexual morality and gendered normative concerns that impact the contextual definition of risks. It is concluded that combating adult-centrism and gender inequalities should be a cornerstone of policies aimed at strengthening adolescents’ rights.

Keywords : sexuality; contraception; sexual double standards; risks.

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