Sexual Health Education Research Articles

Characteristics and associations between sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors among college students in Jiangxi Province, China

Background To explore the characteristics, influencing factors, and associations between sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors among college students in Jiangxi Province, China, providing a basis for promoting sexual health education and preventing high-risk sexual behaviors among college students. Methods A convenient sampling method was used to conduct an anonymous survey on 13,976 students from 15 universities in Jiangxi Province from November to December 2023. Chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression analyses were employed to investigate the influencing factors and associations between sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors. Results The reported rates of sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors among college students were 12.7% and 11.0%, respectively. Regression results indicated that the influencing factors for both behaviors included sex, grade, major, sexual orientation, knowledge of HIV/AIDS and family upbringing methods (P-values all <0.05). College students with experiences of sexting were more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors (OR 16.260, 95% CI: 14.032–18.842), including unprotected sex (OR 8.140, 95% CI: 6.994–9.472), multiple sexual partners (OR 8.215, 95% CI: 6.394–10.554), casual sex (OR 17.104, 95% CI: 13.302–21.994) and commercial sex (OR 40.910, 95% CI: 26.660–62.776), and were also less likely to intend to use condoms in the future (OR 1.391, 95% CI: 1.171–1.652). Conclusion The prevalence of sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors among college students in Jiangxi Province should not be overlooked, and those with sexting experiences are more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors. Educators should enhance sexual health education and safety control of sexual behaviors among college students.

Evaluating knowledge gains from structured sexual and reproductive health education among in-school adolescents in Southeast Nigeria

BackgroundLack of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge among adolescents can lead to risky sexual behaviors and poor SRH outcomes. This study aimed to assess the difference in SRH knowledge between adolescents in schools that received SRH interventions and those in non-intervention schools in Ebonyi State, Southeast, Nigeria.MethodsThis was an intervention study that employed an ex-post outcome design. Data were collected from 503 in-school adolescent boys and girls aged 13–18 who were randomly selected from the eligible schools. The data were collected through a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire Participants were randomly selected for technique. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted.ResultsA significantly higher proportion of respondents who participated in the intervention (94.16%) demonstrated good knowledge of SRH compared to those who did not participate (85.77%), with a p-value of 0.002. Senior secondary school students (92.31%) exhibited better SRH knowledge than junior secondary school students (86.39%) (p = 0.031). Female adolescents were 3.2 times less likely to have good SRH knowledge compared to male adolescents.ConclusionsEfforts to adopt and scale up SRH interventions should prioritize equal and full participation across all adolescent groups, especially girls, junior students, working adolescents, and urban residents.

The influence of community-level digital health interventions by peer educators on HIV/AIDS prevention among adolescents: A scoping review

Timely identification of HIV is crucial for mitigating transmission and enhancing treatment efficacy. Information and communication technology and digital media advancement have become integral to adolescent's daily lives. Platforms, including social media, instant messaging applications, and websites, offer novel avenues for disseminating health information, particularly on HIV/AIDS prevention. The peer educator model and digital media provide more interactive, personalized, and targeted dissemination of health messages. This study encompasses original research published in English, adhering to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses) guidelines. The search utilized Scopus, Science Direct, Pubmed, Medline, and Google Scholar data, covering selected publications from 2019 to 2024 during the last five years. The most notable rise transpired among the youngest demographic, specifically those aged 13 to 14, with an average knowledge increase of about 18%. Adolescents exposed to sexual and reproductive health education via peer discussion groups possessed superior awareness about HIV compared to those who were not exposed. Enhanced comprehension among students in the intervention group of HIV/AIDS, its transmission, and prevention methods. The control group students' knowledge did not improve during the post-test. The extent of peer educator engagement in HIV/AIDS knowledge among adolescents who received digital media intervention showed a significant increase of 1.90 times relative to the group that did not get such intervention (p<0.00001). The digital media intervention markedly enhanced peer educator engagement in HIV/AIDS awareness among adolescents. Digital media-based HIV screening initiatives are essential to improve access to HIV/AIDS information services.

Adolescent Youth Survey on HIV Prevention and Sexual Health Education in Alabama: Protocol for a Web-Based Survey With Fraud Protection Study.

In Alabama, the undiagnosed HIV rate is over 20%; youth and young adults, particularly those who identify as sexual and gender minority individuals, are at elevated risk for HIV acquisition and are the only demographic group in the United States with rising rates of new infections. Adolescence is a period marked by exploration, risk taking, and learning, making comprehensive sexual health education a high-priority prevention strategy for HIV and sexually transmitted infections. However, in Alabama, school-based sexual health and HIV prevention education is strictly regulated and does not address the unique needs of sexual and gender minority teenagers. To understand knowledge gaps related to sexual health, HIV prevention, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), we conducted the Alabama Youth Survey with individuals aged 14-17 years. In the survey, we also evaluated young sexual and gender minority individuals' preferences related to prevention modalities and trusted sources of health information. Between September 2023 and March 2024, we conducted a web-based survey with 14- to 17-year-olds who are assigned male at birth, are sexually attracted to male youth, and lived in Alabama. Half of the study's participants were recruited through community partners, the Magic City Acceptance Academy and Magic City Acceptance Center. The other half were recruited on the web via social media. A 7-step fraud and bot detection protocol was implemented and applied to web-based recruitment to reduce the likelihood of collecting false information. Once data are ready, we will compute frequencies for each measure and construct summary scores of scales, such as HIV and PrEP knowledge, to determine internal consistency. Using multivariable logistic regression, we will examine associations between personal characteristics of survey respondents and key constructs using SPSS 29 (IBM Corp) or SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute). Analyses are ongoing (N=206) and will conclude in June 2025. Preliminary results include a sample mean age of 16.21 (SD 0.88) years; about a quarter identified as transgender or gender nonconforming, with 6% stating their gender as a transgender woman. A total of 30% self-reported their race as African American or Black; 12% were Hispanic or Latinx. More than half reported being sexually active in the past 6 months. Primary data analyses will be completed in mid-2025. If findings are promising, results will be used as preliminary data to support the development of an intervention to address knowledge gaps and prevention preferences. If the study is successful, it will yield information on HIV knowledge, PrEP awareness, PrEP preferences, and related outcomes among sexual and gender minority teenagers in Alabama, an underserved, hard-to-reach, but also high-priority population for public health efforts to Ending the HIV Epidemic. DERR1-10.2196/63114.

P-523. Impact of Tailored Education on Engagement in Sexual Health and HIV Prevention Services Among US Women

Abstract Background Women in the US are facing increasing barriers to sexual health services. This project aimed to enhance sexual health literacy and linkage to HIV prevention among US women. Methods From 6/2023-8/2023, six patient education sessions on sexual health and HIV prevention were held in women’s health clinics in California, Georgia, and Virginia. Surveys were given to participating patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) before/after each session and one month later. Content was shared nationally through an online toolkit for HCPs and a public social media video. Results Among the 88 patients who attended a sexual health education session (mean age: 44 years; 60% Black, 83% previously tested for HIV), baseline awareness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (23%) and resources for HIV testing/prevention (63%) significantly increased to 71% (P < .001) and 84% (P = .002), respectively, after the sessions. More women felt confident in HIV prevention after the education than before (93% vs. 82%, P = .028). After education, all participating HCPs (n = 6) correctly identified that a woman’s HIV risk is nearly constant throughout life and that PrEP should be offered to anyone who asks for it, compared to 50% correctly answering each question at baseline (P = .181). When asked about patients’ barriers to HIV/STI testing, HCPs most frequently chose fear of judgment (50%), while patients reported cost concerns (27%) and test-related anxiety (26%). When asked what would make testing easier, learning about free or low-cost local testing centers was most frequently chosen by both patients (49%) and HCPs (67%). Discordances were observed regarding PrEP barriers. The top patient-reported barrier was insurance coverage/medication costs (48%), while HCPs perceived fear of side effects as the main barrier (67%). One month later, 73% (n = 19/26) of patients had gotten tested for HIV, and HCPs had discussed HIV screening/prevention with 94 women and helped 38 start PrEP. As of 1/2024, the online toolkit and social media video were accessed by 1,057 and 4,054 people, respectively. Conclusion This tailored educational initiative offered insights into women’s barriers to HIV screening and prevention, after which women’s participation in HIV testing and awareness of PrEP improved. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Engaging People with Intellectual Disability in Participatory Action Research: Co-Developing Sex Educational Resources

People with intellectual disability experience barriers accessing appropriate sexual health information, particularly that are developed using a participatory approach. A Participatory Action Research Group (PARG) including two people with intellectual disability and ten people working in sexual health education worked alongside researchers to develop sex education resources for young people with intellectual disability. Through seven co-development meetings, PARG members contributions benefited the research outputs. They viewed the co-development process as valuable to the sector and identified how the research team facilitated their meaningful engagement. This paper adds to the literature that informs participatory action research and highlights the steps required to engage people with lived experience in inclusive research methods.

Factors associated with adolescent pregnancy among girls aged between 15 and 19 years in Muhanga district, Rwanda

BackgroundAdolescent pregnancy, also known as teenage pregnancy, is an unwanted pregnancy affecting girls aged 15–19 years. With a global prevalence of 25%, Africa has 18.8% of female adolescents become pregnant, preventing them from a better standard of living, such as good education and parental care, and adolescent pregnancy, which poses health risks, educational and career disruptions, financial strain, and lower academic achievement, while also increasing public costs and social service demand. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with adolescent pregnancy among girls aged 15–19 years in Muhanga district, Rwanda.MethodsThe study involved 392 female adolescents aged 15–19 years in Muhanga district, Rwanda. The participants were selected through a multistage sampling method, and the study ensured voluntary participation whereby the assent and consent forms were signed. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed via STATA v.18, and statistical analysis, including chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression, was used to control for confounders. Ethical approval was obtained from Mount Kenya University and Muhanga district administration.ResultsThe study reported an adolescent pregnancy rate of 10.7% (95% CI: 7.7–13.7). Adolescents financially supported by others (not their parents or guardians) had higher odds of having pregnancy (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI: 1.431–10.467, p < 0.01). Those not in school and primary school showed higher odds of having a pregnancy (AOR = 23.76, 95% CI: 6.833–82.630, p < 0.001) and (AOR = 25.60, 95% CI: 7.224–90.741, p < 0.001), respectively, compared to those in secondary school. Receiving SRH education was associated with lower odds of having a pregnancy (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.80–0.514, p < 0.001). Experiencing peer pressure increased the odds of having a pregnancy (AOR = 4.12, 95% CI: 1.521–11.131, p < 0.01).ConclusionsThis study highlights a significant adolescent pregnancy rate in Muhanga district, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Addressing educational gaps, improving financial support systems, and enhancing sexual and reproductive health education are crucial steps. Policymakers should focus on these areas to reduce adolescent pregnancies and improve outcomes for young girls. Future efforts should also include strategies to counteract peer pressure and integrate comprehensive support programs.

Interventions in the Sexuality of Men With Stomas: A Scoping Review.

To map interventions in the sexuality of men with stomas. Scoping review, following JBI and PRISMA-ScR guidelines to report results. Databases consulted were PubMed, via National Library of Medicine, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Brazilian Electronic Library of Thesis and Dissertations, CAPES Catalogue of Thesis and Dissertations and Open Access Scientific Repository of Portugal. Texts were read by independent reviewers, with no time or language restrictions. The final sample included 10 studies. Data were synthesised and grouped for its similarity to approach models, preoperative orientations, self-care promotion, collecting pouch hygiene and safety, sexual health discussion and education, construction of bonds and sexual function evaluation. Interventions in the sexuality of men with stomas included adherence to models for approaching sexuality, focusing on the permission and coparticipation of the patient, open conversations on the topic, self-care promotion, collecting pouch hygiene and safety, encouragement to the creation of bonds, sexual function evaluation in pre- and postoperative periods and individual and/or collective sexual health education. This study contributes to the sexuality of men with stomas. It identified recommendations to approach and conduct the topic at hand, addressing the rehabilitation process since the surgery to place the stoma is considered. This study addressed scientific literature on the sexuality of men with stomas. Most were from Europe and results demonstrated a gap in knowledge. This research will impact the stoma therapy research, affecting teams involved in the care to men with stomas, encouraging reflections on the sexuality of these patients. This study complies with the PRISMA-ScR. There was no patient or public contribution. The protocol of this scoping review was registered in the Open Science Framework, registered under DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/X9DSC. It can be accessed through the following link: https://osf.io/x9dsc/?view_only=a9c62ef6c11f44499f7b2bfe1fe379f9.

Period poverty in Bangladesh: Examining low-cost and sustainable solutions

Period poverty is a widespread public health challenge among women and girls in Bangladesh, marked by poor access to sanitation, limited access to menstrual hygiene products and low education about reproductive and sexual health. Addressing these issues necessitates implementing cost-effective solutions for menstrual well-being. Sustainable approaches include community health initiatives focusing on menstrual health education and the provision of affordable menstrual products. Additionally, reforming existing sexual and reproductive health education to adequately address menstrual needs is essential. Policy frameworks should integrate cost-effective options, incentivise local production, and remove taxes from menstrual products. Media engagement and collaborative platforms can amplify awareness and facilitate sustained progress. Ultimately, addressing period poverty requires holistic approaches to ensure dignity, health, and empowerment for all women and girls in Bangladesh.

Epidemiology and determinants of HIV among female sex workers in India: a systematic review and meta-analysis

India faces a significant HIV burden, with female sex workers (FSWs) being highly vulnerable. This study estimated the prevalence of HIV among FSWs in India and identified risk factors. PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were searched for relevant studies published up to December 2023. Data analysis was performed using R software. Nineteen studies from different regions of India were included. The pooled HIV prevalence among FSWs was 12.6% (95% CI: 8.7; 18.1), with significant regional variations: West region reported the highest prevalence at 27.2%, followed by South (17.2%), Northeast (9.6%), and East (7.5%). Major determinants of HIV prevalence included older age, early initiation into sex work, sole dependence on sex work for income, unmarried status, inconsistent condom use, and injecting drug use. These findings show the need for region-specific interventions, including regular HIV testing, condom promotion, harm reduction for drug use, sexual health education, and integrated healthcare for HIV and sexually transmitted infections to improve health outcomes among FSWs.

Migrants’ Perceptions and Needs in Sexual Health Education: A Focus Group Study

Migrants’ Perceptions and Needs in Sexual Health Education: A Focus Group Study

Effectiveness of menstrual hygiene management training to enhance knowledge, attitude, and practice among adolescents in Sindhupalchowk, Nepal.

Menstrual Health (MH) knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) are highly affected by access to information regarding menstruation. Despite being included in the school curriculum, Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education is often not delivered in practice. School-based educational interventions have been shown to be effective in promoting MH. A school-based study was conducted in Indrawati rural municipality of Sindhupalchowk district in Nepal. 427 participants (175 boys and 252 girls), aged 11-13, completed a questionnaire evaluating MH KAP before receiving a structured training module on MH provided by experienced trainers from Putali Nepal using the Menstrupedia tool. The questionnaire was repeated one month after the training. Pre and post intervention scores were compared to determine the effect of the intervention. Focus group discussions were also conducted to understand the perceptions of participants toward SRH teaching. Association of independent socio-demographic with dependent variables knowledge and attitude towards menstrual health were analyzed using MANOVA test. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the median outcome of the pre and post-test attitude and knowledge. The maximum possible score was 6 for MH knowledge. The total attitude score ranged 14 to 70. The median knowledge score increased by 1 point (p = <0.001) and the median attitude score by 5 points (p = <0.001), one month after delivery of the intervention. Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with Hindu religion, female gender, higher father's literacy, and mothers in an informal occupation on multivariate analysis. Higher attitude scores were significantly associated with Hindu religion while lower attitude scores were associated with a mother in an informal occupation. The Menstrupedia comic educational intervention improved knowledge and attitude towards menstruation among Nepali adolescents. A scale-up of the Menstrupedia based intervention would significantly change knowledge and attitude towards menstruation in Nepali adolescents.

CULTURES OF SEX ADVICE: EXAMINING TIKTOK COMMUNITIES AROUND SEXUAL HEALTH IN THE US

This study investigates how sexuality experts communicate sexual advice on online platforms and how audiences interact with and perceive these experts. Through a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics inherent in this communication process, we seek to gain insights into the evolving landscape of sexual advice and health in the digital age. Furthermore, our objective is to address a notable gap in this body of literature by incorporating how audiences engage with this content. We conducted a thematic analysis of TikTok videos and comment sections, combined with in-depth interviews with sexuality experts, to explore how experts build credibility amongst their audience, and how audiences engage with their content and evaluate expertise and credibility. Preliminary results suggest that creators employ various strategies when their expertise is questioned, including responding to comments, crafting replies to videos, and utilizing humor to connect with users. Audience members also play a vital role in validating creators' expertise. We also found that sexual health advice was not solely coming from creators, but also from those engaging in comments, fostering a culture of advice related to the video’s theme, challenging the conventional top-down hierarchy in sexual education where expertise is unilaterally shared. Ultimately, our study aligns with this year’s conference theme – examining the emergence and continuation of industries like sexual health education – highlighting the dynamics that arise within online spaces.

Enhancing Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) performance: Analyzing the role of human resource practices in Sri Lanka's telecommunication industry through Lewin's change management model.

This study explores the integration of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education in Sri Lanka, utilizing the Health Belief Model (HBM) to predict the perceived quality of SRH education among non-state undergraduate students. In many Asian countries, including Sri Lanka, cultural resistance and skepticism often challenge SRH education initiatives. The research is based on a questionnaire survey, examining factors influencing the perceived quality of SRH education, such as cultural norms, embarrassment, attitudes, awareness, and institutional support. In recent years, the Sri Lankan telecom industry has experienced significant expansion and transformation, leading to a notable increase in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This study investigates the impact of human resource practices on M&A performance, utilizing Lewin's Change Management Model as a framework. The research is based on a questionnaire survey, examining factors influencing the performance of M&A in Sri Lanka Telecom industry, such as communication (Unfreeze), training (Change), leadership (Refreeze), and performance (M&A outcomes). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) reveals that communication significantly influences training (β = 0.800), while training has a strong effect on leadership (β = 1.062), both directly and indirectly via communication (β = 0.850). Additionally, performance is positively impacted by training (β = 0.819) and leadership (β = 0.459), with communication exerting a substantial indirect influence on performance (β = 0.655). These results underscore the necessity for an integrated approach that enhances organizational performance and adaptability in an evolving business landscape. To optimize M&A outcomes, organizations are encouraged to prioritize leadership development, invest in comprehensive training programs, and align communication strategies effectively. This research contributes valuable insights into the management of change within the telecom sector, promoting sustainable growth and success in future M&A endeavours.

Factors Associated with Risky Sexual Behavior in Adolescents in Indonesia Rural Areas

Adolescence is a transitional period from childhood to adulthood, marked by rapid physical, psychological, and social changes that can impact the development of sexual behaviours, including the potential for engaging in risky sexual behaviour. This study aimed to identify factors that influence risky sexual behaviour in adolescents in Indonesia's Rural Areas. This study is a quantitative research with a cross-sectional design. The sample of this study was active students in Banyumas Regency, one of Indonesia’s rural areas in 2022. A probability sampling technique with proportional stratified random sampling was used and obtained 452 respondents. The data was collected using questionnaire sheets. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square and multiple logistic regression tests. This study shows that dating experience, dating status, age, religiosity and access to technology are the most influential factors for risky sexual behaviour in adolescents in rural areas, with dating experience having the greatest influence as indicated by an OR value of 6.67. Although religiosity plays a role, it is insufficient to protect adolescents from risk. Comprehensive sexual health education and consistent monitoring of technology usage are urgently needed to reduce risky sexual behaviours among adolescents in rural areas.

Sexual Health Encounters: Competence and Barriers Among Family Medicine Residents and Primary Care Physicians of the National Guard in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia.

The study aimed to survey the self-reported competence of primary care physicians in the National Guard in addressing and treating sexual health issues at King Abdulaziz Medical City Primary Health Care (PHC) centers in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia. In this cross-sectional study, the region was represented by three cities as follows: three PHC centers from Jeddah City (Iskan PHC Center (King Faisal Residential City), Specialized Poly Clinic PHC Center, and Bahra PHC Center at National Guard Hospital), one PHC center from Taif City (Iskan PHC Center (King Khalid Residential City)), and one PHC center from Makkah City (Al-Sharaie PHC Center). A total of 93 participants were included in this study. This study revealed that nearly half of the participants (40, 43%) reported having moderate levels of perceived competence, while nearly half (39, 41.9%) noted moderate barriers to addressing sexual health issues. Evidence of moderate levels of perceived competence and barriers suggests the need to address sexual health education.

Psychosocial challenges of pregnant adolescents: A narrative Inquiry of Adolescents in the Ho Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana

Adolescent health studies in Ghana’s Volta Region have often focused on topics such as family planning, teenage pregnancy, and unsafe abortions. However, limited empirical evidence exists regarding the psychosocial challenges faced by pregnant adolescents. This study explores the psychological and social difficulties impacting pregnant adolescents in the Ho Municipality, to inform policies and psychosocial interventions to support this vulnerable group. Using a narrative and phenomenological approach, this facility-based qualitative study gathered insights from pregnant adolescents aged 10-19 through in-depth interviews at the Volta Regional and Ho Municipal Hospitals. Participants were selected through purposive sampling and provided accounts of their experiences, challenges, and the factors contributing to their pregnancies. Thematic analysis revealed significant psychological challenges such as hopelessness, anxiety, sadness, isolation, and sleep disturbances. These issues were often driven by family rejection, partner denial, stigmatization, and discrimination. Poverty emerged as the primary contributor to adolescent pregnancy, alongside factors such as single parenting, lack of contraceptive access, limited sexual education, peer pressure, cultural influences, and media portrayals of sexual behaviour. The study highlights a need for multifaceted strategies at both structural and individual levels to address adolescent pregnancy and its associated psychosocial challenges in the Ho Municipality. The study recommended implementing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education in schools, communities, and families to better support adolescents in managing and preventing pregnancy.

The effect of premarital classes on the level of knowledge of reproductive health and participation in premarital check up on prospective bride and groom

Introduction: The bride and groom are who are about to get married may still not realize how important premarital check-ups are. Even though this examination is very helpful in identifying health problems and risks for yourself and your partner. Seeing this fact, the provision of sexual and reproductive health education needs to be given to prospective bride and groom who will enter the marriage gate. Objective: This research was to determine the effect of premarital classes on the level of reproductive health knowledge and premarital check up participation in prospective brides and grooms. Method: This type of research is observational quantitative research with a cross-sectional approach. Sampling using consecutive sampling method. Respondents were 110 bride and groom who attended premarital classes at PUSPAGA Surabaya City in September 2024. Data collection using an instrument in the form of a questionnaire filled in by the bride and groom. Result: From the results of the analysis, it was found that almost all prospective bride and groom had good knowledge and all prospective brides were willing to take premarital check-ups after attending premarital classes. The results of statistical tests using the Wilcoxon test obtained a p-value = 0.00 (p value &lt;0.05). There is an effect of premarital classes on the level of reproductive health knowledge and participation in premarital check-ups in prospective bride and groom. Conclusion: There is an effect of premarital classes on the level of reproductive health knowledge and participation in premarital check-ups in prospective bride and groom.

Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of contraceptive use among senior high school students in Hohoe, Ghana: Addressing barriers to adolescent sexual health.

Adolescents’ limited knowledge and negative perceptions about contraception contribute significantly to high rates of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Ghana. This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of contraceptive use among students at Evangelical Presbyterian Senior High School (HEPSS) in Hohoe Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana. Despite increased awareness about sexual health, numerous barriers—including social stigma, fear of side effects, lack of confidentiality, and cultural expectations—prevent adolescents from accessing or using contraceptives effectively. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted with 30 students aged 15 and older, exploring their awareness of contraceptives, factors influencing their use, and the socio-cultural dynamics shaping their attitudes. Results indicate that a significant number of students (87%) were unaware of contraceptives, misconceptions and fear of judgment of the usage of contraception remain prevalent, 63.3% of the respondents are sexually active. Many adolescents feel uncomfortable discussing contraceptive use due to parental disapproval and societal stigma, 50% of the respondents discuss contraception with peers limiting their ability to make informed choices. Only a minority (26.7%) actively use contraception, reflecting both a lack of accessibility and perceived societal discouragement. The findings suggest a critical need for comprehensive, youth-focused sexual health education and improved access to contraceptive services in schools. By addressing these barriers, policy makers and health educators can foster a supportive environment that empowers adolescents to make informed reproductive choices, reducing rates of unintended pregnancies and improving overall adolescent health.

Influence Alcohol, Sexuality, And Reproductive Health To Quality Of Life For Teenagers In Bolaang Mongondow

Adolescence is an important period in human development marked by significant physical, psychological, and social changes. In this context, alcohol consumption, sexual health, and reproductive health can affect the overall quality of life of adolescents. This study aims to analyze the effect of alcohol consumption, sexual health, and reproductive health on the quality of life of adolescents in Bolaang Mongondow Regency. This study used a quantitative approach with an observational method and cross-sectional design. The study sample consisted of 406 adolescents selected by simple random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using univariate, bivariate (Chi Square test), and multivariate (logistic regression) analysis. The results showed that alcohol consumption had a significant effect on the quality of life of adolescents in the psychological domain (p = 0.001) and environment (p = 0.000). Meanwhile, sexual and reproductive health had a significant effect on the psychological domain (p = 0.006) and environment (p = 0.042). Alcohol consumption has been shown to contribute to impaired self-confidence, concentration, and discomfort in the social environment, while poor sexual and reproductive health causes difficulties in building personal relationships and social comfort. The results of this study have important implications for policy makers, particularly in strengthening regulations related to alcohol consumption among adolescents and developing more comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education programs. Community-based interventions also need to be improved to create a social environment that supports healthy and responsible adolescent development. This study provides an evidence-based basis for designing relevant and sustainable policies to improve the quality of life of adolescents.