DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjmcr.2026.v14i04.048

Pages: 790-795

Introduction: Access to family planning (FP) is a key component of adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health (SRH). In many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including Mali, such access remains strongly influenced by sociocultural and institutional norms, particularly marital status. Adolescents face multiple barriers in accessing information and sexual and reproductive health services. The objective of this study was to analyze disparities related to marital status in access to family planning among adolescents in the district of Bamako. Methods: This was a qualitative study based on focus group discussions conducted with married and unmarried adolescent girls across the six communes of the Bamako district. Data were collected using an interview guide and analyzed through a thematic approach to explore adolescents’ knowledge and conditions of access to family planning services according to their marital status. Results: The findings confirm that marital status is a key determinant of access to family planning services. Married adolescents benefit from greater social acceptance, although their decision-making autonomy is often limited by spousal influence. In contrast, unmarried adolescents face stigma, fear of judgment, and social norms that associate contraceptive use with marriage. Conclusion: This study highlights the need to strengthen interventions aimed at improving equitable access to family planning services and to promote adolescent-friendly services.