Web-based sexual and reproductive health education for adolescents aged 10-17 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education is crucial for adolescents aged 10-17 years, yet its effectiveness in this age group has not been quantified in prior meta-analyses. This study aims to address that gap.

Objective

The objectives of this systematic review and meta-analysis were to (1) evaluate the effectiveness of web-based SRH education for adolescents aged 10-17 years and (2) explore potential factors influencing intervention effectiveness by synthesising study characteristics, including study design, theoretical foundation, implementation approach and follow-up duration.

Data sources

We searched PubMed and Web of Science from database construction to October 2023.

Eligibility criteria

This review included randomised controlled trials of web-based SRH education for adolescents aged 10-17 years.

Study appraisal and synthesis methods

Data were extracted and examined by two researchers. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool assessed the risk of bias. Analyses were divided into three groups, employing meta-analytic methodologies.

Results

11 articles involving 7876 participants were analysed. This study revealed a moderate effect on knowledge (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.59, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.94)), a low effect on attitudes (SMD 0.16, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.22) and a moderate effect on sexual behaviour (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.94), with no significant effect on self-efficacy. Comparisons between web-based and traditional face-to-face SRH education were inconclusive due to limited studies and methodological heterogeneity.

Limitations

The overall certainty of evidence is limited by risk of bias, high heterogeneity and the use of only two databases, which suggests that the findings should be interpreted with caution.

Conclusions and implications of key findings

Web-based SRH education has potential in enhancing adolescents' knowledge, attitudes and behaviour. Future research must adhere to recognised reporting standards, thereby ensuring methodological consistency and enhancing the quality of evidence.

Prospero registration number

CRD42023400504.

SUBMITTER: Guo R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12581069 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature