Development of comprehensive sexual education applications to improve adolescent reproductive health

• Published in: Medisains (Online) Vol. 22; no. 2; pp. 104 - 109
• Main Authors: Supriyadi, Supriyadi, Sodikin, Sodikin, Rahman, Ainun Najib Febrya, Wijaya, Ermadi Satria
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto 31.08.2024
• Subjects: adolescent; mobile applications; reproductive health; sex education
• ISSN: 1693-7309; 2621-2366
• DOI: 10.30595/medisains.v22i2.21460

Background: Adolescence is a period of emotional, mental, and physical change. To improve health-seeking behavior, reduce risky sexual behaviors, and increase knowledge about sexual and reproductive health, adolescents need support and access to services. The increasing availability of mobile apps requires a thorough evaluation of the quality and classification of these mobile apps so that accurate and evidence-based information can reach their users. Because smartphones are a private (intimate) technology, they are a promising means of closing this gap. However, research focusing on sexual health promotion programs delivered through smartphones is still rare.Purposes: Developing and testing a smartphone and internet-based comprehensive sex education app.Methods: This study employed Research and Development consisting of 4 stages, namely Literature Study, Development Stage, Validity Expert, and Trial.Result: The SEMAR app has seven features, ranging from mental health education to human relationships. The convenience score is 70%. The results of the trial show that this application effectively improves health education. 50-83% agree to use it. The sex stigma variable has the most extensive r (r=0.955), which means it has a solid and positive relationship.Conclusion: This application benefits adolescents in improving health education and adolescent reproductive health.