Knowledge of sexual and reproductive health among young adults

To investigate the sources of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information among young adults aged 16, 17 and 18 years and compare their dominance in 3 countries – Latvia, Portugal and Cape-Verde. To compare the knowledge of SRH topics in three countries with different social backgrounds – Latvia, Portugal and Cape-Verde. A quantitative study performed by means of a 3-part questionnaire: Identification; Sources of information; Knowledge of sexual and reproductive health. Two countries–Portugal and Cape-Verde are the target populations. Data was analysed within the country itself and compared to the other country under study. Theoretical data from literature about Latvia was analysed and used for further conclusions. A total of 611 individual students, 246 (40.3%) Portuguese and 365 (59.7%) Cape-Verdeans, predominantly feminine (51.7%), aged 16 years (43.7%). Most students acquired information about puberty and the reproductive systems of men and women through ‘professors’ (60.7% and 75.6% respectively). Young adults are more comfortable and prefer to speak to friends about sex related topics (36,8%) and personal issues (44.2%). Students report an acceptable level of knowledge: 76.6% know women can get pregnant on their very first sexual intercourse, 83,1% know that STIs can occur from the first sexual intercourse. The most familiar contraceptive method is ‘condoms’ (96.6%) and ‘HIV’ (95.9%) is the most recognized STI. Young adults need a deeper, more specialized SRH education, which is essential for responsible sexual behaviours. They gravitate more towards their peers for information, even though their primary source of information is their professors. Specializing teachers in SRH education is of utmost interest when it comes to improving it worldwide. Superficially, we conclude that problems in SRH education are present in both developed and developing countries. This study represents a small step in the understanding of adolescents SRH needs in Latvia, Portugal and Cabo-Verde.