The effects of sex education in promoting sexual and reproductive health in Portuguese university students

The goal of this research was to analyze the significance of sex education in schools and what are its effects in promoting healthy sexual behaviour among university students. The sample included 3278 students. Results showed students who had sex education in school mentioned more often having had fewer sexual risk behaviours (less occasional partners, less sex associated to alcohol and drugs, less STIs, less unwanted pregnancies and abortions). Most young people have reasonable knowledge, positive attitudes about contraception/STIs, and skills of condom use. Our study demonstrates positive associations between receiving sex education and protective sexual behaviours, knowledge, motivation and skills.