Impact assessment of school-based sex education program amongst adolescents

This was a cross-sectional, interview-based study to assess the impact of sex education on the students and the feasibility of such a program. Study sample consisted of 189 students from two secondary schools of Surat city. Impact was assessed by "before and after" administration of questionnaires. Statistical analysis was done by Z tests for difference of means and proportions. Sex education influenced the need perception and the knowledge of the students. After the training, the preferred mean age to start sex education in the two sexes converged to be 15-16 years. Doctors remained the first choice to impart the sex education, followed by school teachers. Knowledge about the STDs and the method(s) of prevention improved significantly (more in boys). Optimum days for conception became known to more students after the training and the gain was more in girls. Increased awareness about the contraceptives (condoms) use was evident in boys and (oral pills and condoms) in girls. The training improved the participation of girls in the post-evaluation program. A positive attitudinal change was observed after the training, towards extra-marital sex. It also removed the myths associated with masturbation. All students were satisfied with the programme, however, two-third of boys considered the duration insufficient.