Exploring Adolescents’ Experiences Of Digital Sexual Reproductive Health Education In Ghana

Abstract

Adolescents in Ghana face significant sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges, including high rates of teenage pregnancy (15.4% nationally), unsafe abortion practices, and persistently low contraceptive use (13% among 15–19-year-olds). Traditional approaches to SRH education delivered through schools, clinics, and community outreach are constrained by cultural taboos, stigma, teacher discomfort, and limited reach to vulnerable populations. Digital platforms offer promising alternatives, yet little is known about how Ghanaian adolescents actually experience and engage with digital SRH education within their specific socio-cultural contexts. This study explores the lived experiences of Ghanaian adolescents aged 15-19 with digital sexual and reproductive health education, examining their knowledge and awareness of digital platforms, perceived benefits compared to traditional methods, barriers encountered, and influence on confidence, decision-making, and health-seeking behaviors. The study employed a qualitative, phenomenological design grounded in an interpretive research paradigm. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 20 adolescents, key informant interviews with 4 health professionals and program implementers, and document review of existing digital health interventions in the Greater Accra Region. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's (2006) framework was used to identify patterns of meaning. Adolescents demonstrated high awareness of digital SRH information but primarily accessed content through general social media platforms rather than dedicated health applications. The overwhelming preference for digital platforms stemmed from their provision of privacy and anonymity, contrasting sharply with stigmatizing traditional settings. Digital platforms offered significant advantages including 24/7 accessibility, self-paced learning, and engaging multimedia content. However, major barriers included high mobile data costs, poor connectivity, concerns about misinformation, cultural mismatch with Western-centric content, and fears of family surveillance. The study concludes that digital SRH platforms represent a vital, youth-preferred alternative to traditional methods in Ghana, though their transformative potential is constrained by economic barriers and implementation gaps regarding cultural relevance and trustworthy information.