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Pupil-led sex education in England (RIPPLE study): cluster-randomised intervention trial
J M Stephenson1, V Strange, S Forrest
1Centre for Sexual Health & HIVResearch, Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Royal Free and University College London, London, UK. Jstephen@gum.ucl.ac.uk
Lancet (London, England)
|July 28, 2004
Summary
Peer-led sex education reduced intercourse in girls but not boys. While it didn't significantly lower unprotected sex, it showed promise for improving teen sexual health strategies.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Sex Education Research
Background:
- Teenage pregnancy reduction is a UK government priority.
- School-based sex education is a key strategy.
- Effectiveness of peer-led approaches requires evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of peer-led sex education.
- To compare peer-led versus traditional teacher-led sex education.
- To evaluate impact on early sexual activity and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A school-based randomized trial involving over 8000 pupils across 29 schools.
- Intervention group received peer-led sex education; control group received usual teacher-led education.
- Primary outcome: unprotected first heterosexual intercourse by age 16; intention-to-treat analysis.
Main Results:
- Fewer girls reported intercourse in the peer-led group; no difference for boys.
- No significant difference in unprotected first sex for either gender.
- Borderline reduction in unintended pregnancies for girls in the peer-led group.
- Higher satisfaction with peer-led education, with a preference for single-sex sessions.
Conclusions:
- Peer-led sex education shows some benefits but is insufficient alone for improving young people's sexual health.
- Broader strategies are necessary to enhance sexual health outcomes.
- Further research into the effectiveness of single-sex sex education sessions is recommended.
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