The Use of Digital Media to Access Sexual and Reproductive Health Information Among Adolescents in Senior High Schools in The Ho Municipality, Volta Region

Abstract

Introduction: Digital media has increased significantly over the years, with young people worldwide using digital spaces to access information, interact with peers, and ask questions related to Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR). This pattern is more common in sub-Saharan Africa due to challenges in sexual and reproductive health education, including cultural norms, limited access to resources, and accessibility issues. However, the transition to digital media presents challenges, such as exposing adolescents to unfiltered, harmful, and potentially exploitative interactions. Aims: This study examined the use of digital media among adolescents in the Ho municipality, to access sexual reproductive health, and identified the types of digital media tools adolescents use. And finally assessed the impact of digital media on sexual and reproductive health knowledge, attitude and behavior. Methodology: The study employed quantitative research method, specifically, cross-sectional design, using a self-administered questionnaire to receive information from the participants. Stata statistical software package (Version 18) was used for the data analysis. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted with statistical significance set at p-value <0.05. Results: Out of 342 respondents, the majority were aged 16–19 years (82.7%) and female (78.0%). Digital media emerged as the most commonly used source of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information (40.5%), followed by school teachers and family. Social media was the most frequently used digital platform (67.7%), while mobile apps were least used (24.0%). Educational level and relationship status were significantly associated with digital media use (p < 0.05). Multivariable analysis revealed that digital media use was significantly associated with higher odds of positive SRH attitudes (AOR = 4.74, p = 0.001), perceived knowledge gain (AOR = 4.39, p = 0.002), and positive behavior change (AOR = 3.14, p = 0.013). Conclusion: There is a high reliance on digital media, particularly social media, for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information among adolescents in senior high schools in the Ho Municipality. This digital engagement is significantly associated with improved SRH knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, and is shaped by socio-demographic factors such as educational level and relationship status. To strengthen adolescent SRH outcomes, school-based interventions should integrate digital literacy, promote access to youth-friendly online content, and combine digital tools with classroom-based education and adolescent-responsive health services, especially in underserved areas.