Effect of an iPad-Based Intervention to Improve Sexual Health Knowledge and Intentions for Contraceptive Use Among Adolescent Females at School-Based Health Centers

Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2017 Nov;56(13):1227-1234. doi: 10.1177/0009922816681135. Epub 2017 Feb 1.

Abstract

Objectives: The use of effective contraception can decrease the incidence of unplanned pregnancy among adolescents. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of an iPad-based application (app) on improving adolescent girls' sexual health knowledge and on its ability to influence their intentions to use effective contraception.

Study design: This was a prospective study of girls aged 12 to 18 years recruited from 3 school-based health centers in California.

Results: A total of 120 racially/ethnically diverse participants used the iPad app; 54% were sexually active, with only 26% using effective contraception at baseline. The average score on baseline sexual health knowledge assessment was 58%. After using the app, 68% of the sexually active participants reported intention to use effective contraception in the future, and sexual health knowledge improved significantly to 79% ( P < .001).

Conclusions: This iPad-based app is a promising intervention to educate adolescents about sexual health and support them in selecting an effective contraception method.

Keywords: LARC; adolescent contraceptive use; computer-based intervention; iPad; school-based health center; sexual health knowledge.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • California
  • Child
  • Computers, Handheld*
  • Contraception Behavior / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Mobile Applications*
  • Prospective Studies
  • School Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology*