Exploring college students’ sexual and reproductive health literacy

Abstract

<b>Objective:</b> To assess college students' sexual and reproductive health (SRH) literacy experiences, specific to contraception use and STI prevention. <b>Participants:</b> In Spring 2015, participants (<i>n</i> = 43) from a large institution participated in six focus groups (two male and four females groups). <b>Methods:</b> Focus groups were guided by the health literacy domains (access; understand; appraise; apply); data were analyzed in MaxQDA using the constant comparative method. <b>Results:</b> The Internet was the most commonly <i>accessed</i> source for SRH information. Participants discussed facilitators (eg, use of visuals) and barriers (eg, medical jargon) to <i>understanding</i> information; and personal lifestyle, advice from family/friends, symptoms, and sexual partners as <i>appraisal</i> factors. Participants <i>applied</i> information by communicating with friends/providers and seeking healthcare. However, findings were not linear nor mutually exclusive, representing the interaction of health literacy skills. <b>Conclusion:</b> Findings suggest that a patient-centered intervention capitalizing on technology and trusted individuals (providers/peer educators) may facilitate college students' SRH literacy.