HEALTH EDUCATION ON SEXUALITY FOR YOUTH AND ADOLESCENTS IN SCHOOLS OF VALENÇA-RJ - AN EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

This article aimed to address the association between education on sexual health, with the objective of collecting and analyzing data on the subject in the municipality of Valença-RJ, in order to establish a positive relationship between education and the health of adolescents and young people, also assisting in the prophylaxis of the problem. The methodology consisted of lectures covering topics such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the importance of routine medical check-ups, the correct and appropriate use of contraceptive methods for each case, prevention of teenage pregnancy, prevention of sexual abuse, and data collection through an anonymous questionnaire applied to high school students. The results highlighted a significant lack of knowledge about sexual health in schools, despite technological and media advances in information dissemination, making it a public health issue. It is concluded that the topic remains difficult for adolescents and young people to access, even though they attend school, which is the most suitable environment for addressing this issue. This highlights the importance of incorporating educational programs on sexual health for young people and adolescents to expand prophylactic knowledge.