Introduction:

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is essential for human development. In the deaf population, SRH is affected by the linguistic gap that prevents access to educational, preventive and health care with high-quality. In Colombia, there are few studies on SRH in this group.

Objective:

To describe the meanings of SRH in deaf people from a support network in Medellín, Colombia, 2024.

Methodology:

Qualitative study with 15 people selected through theoretical saturation. Semi-structured interviews, field diaries and participant observation were conducted. In the analysis, open and axial categorization was performed. The methodological rigor criteria of triangulation, reflexivity, transferability and credibility were applied.

Results:

The central categories were the concept of SRH, sexual rights, contraceptives methods, STIs and challenges for health care. The different subcategories with their properties and dimensions showed low levels of knowledge, multiple barriers to access preventive actions, exclusion of deaf people in sexual education programs in a society designed for hearing people, vulnerability and multiple limitations to health care due to the absence of translators and training in basic sign language skills.

Conclusion:

Gaps in knowledge about SRH and sexual education, risk of sexual abuse, scarce respect and guarantee of health right were identified. It is essential to implement inclusive programs that address the specific needs of the deaf community and provide them with the information and care necessary to manage their SSR in a responsible and autonomous manner.