Role of health education in preventing adolescent pregnancy
Keywords:
Health education, sexual health education, adolescent pregnancy, prevention of unwanted pregnancy, sexual and reproductive healthAbstract
Introduction: Adolescent pregnancy is a priority problem of public health with negative effects on health, education, and social development. Health education, which is understood as a comprehensive process that promotes knowledge, critical thinking, and informed decision-making, is a key strategy for its prevention.
Objective: To analyze the role of health education in the prevention of adolescent pregnancy, considering its ability to promote autonomy and reduce associated risks.
Material and Methods: A descriptive documentary study based on a review of scientific and technical literature published between 2019 and 2024 was performed. Recognized databases such as PubMed, SciELO, Redalyc, and repositories of international organizations were consulted. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, selecting 28 relevant sources. DeCS/MeSH descriptors such as "health education," "sexual health education," "adolescent pregnancy," "unintended pregnancy prevention," and "sexual and reproductive health" were used.
Results: Health education impacts on three key dimensions of adolescent pregnancy: biological and psychological, sociocultural, and economic. The most effective strategies include tailored sexual health education, access to reproductive health services, and equity-focused public policies. A positive impact was evident in contexts where comprehensive and culturally relevant programs are implemented.
Conclusions: Health education is an essential resource for preventing adolescent pregnancy and promoting the exercise of sexual and reproductive rights. Documentary research is limited by the exclusive use of secondary sources, highlighting the need for complementary empirical studies.
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