Adolescent sexual health promotion: evaluating knowledge gains from Finnish intervention

Abstract Background In times of mis- and disinformation, adolescents’ sexual health knowledge demands are vast. Sex education should stay up-to-date and meet the needs of adolescents to enable them to make responsible choices. Methods A school-based intervention aimed at improving the knowledge of adolescents aged 13-14 was developed through co-creation and implemented in 2024. A quasi-experimental design was employed with 387 (intervention group) and 444 (control group) adolescents. Pre-, post-, and delayed intervention surveys were conducted for adolescents in the intervention group (n = 281, n = 252, and n = 285, respectively) and controls (n = 356, n = 281, and n = 336). A generalised linear model was used to analyse the effects. Results Preliminary results indicate that the groups differed in knowledge regarding the prevalence of sexual intercourse among their age (p = 0,018) and how to act if one faces sexual assault (p < 0,001). When observing groups by gender, an effect of the previous claim was seen in girls, too (p = 0.004). Boys had a significant difference in knowledge of frequently fluctuating moods in adolescence (p = 0,024). The groups did not have statistical differences in knowledge related to the definitions of sex and sexuality, the criminal law regarding 15-year-olds having sex with each other, and the definition of paid sex. The level of knowledge was lowest in the theme of age of consent for sexual activity, corresponding to one-fifth of all respondents. Conclusions The results reveal gaps in sexual health knowledge, particularly concerning the prevalence of sexual intercourse and the appropriate actions to take in the event of sexual assault, with gender-specific differences. Further targeted participatory interventions are recommended. Key messages • The basis of sexual health promotion should be the target group’s needs. • Gaps in sexual health knowledge among adolescents are essential to identify.