A Quasi-experimental Study of the Role of Peer Training Intervention for Sexual Education Among School-going Adolescents

Introduction: Inadequate knowledge of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) poses many dangers for adolescents, as they often become sexually active at this stage. This study aimed to assess students’ awareness in this area and to test whether a peer training intervention in sexual health education is feasible and effective. Materials and Methods: Knowledge of SRH was assessed in N = 289 students in classes 9th-12th from one school using a pre-existing structured questionnaire. N = 19 girls and N = 19 boys peer leaders were selected from them and provided education on this topic. They discussed the knowledge acquired with their classmates. Post-intervention data were collected from N = 137 students after 2 weeks. The discussions and clarifications sought by the peer leaders were written down, and thematic analysis was done. Feedback was also noted for the acceptability and feasibility of the educative session. Results: The majority of the students gave correct or appropriate responses for questions related to reproductive systems, sexually transmitted diseases, contraception, pregnancy, and abortion quantitatively. Thematic analysis revealed myths, misconceptions, and cultural beliefs associated with menstruation and masturbation. The questionnaire total score was significantly higher at post-intervention compared to baseline. Most of the peer leaders discussed the information learnt with their classmates and gave positive feedback for the educational session. Discussion: Peer training intervention may be a feasible approach for improving awareness of SRH among school-going adolescents for health promotion.