The effect of peer group education in reproductive health among university
students (in Iran)
N. Peikari, F. Ramezani Tehrani, S.H. Djalalinia, M. Rostami Dovom
NRCRH, Deputy of Research &Technology, MOHME, Tehran, Iran
Objective(s): This study aimed to evaluate effectiveness of peer group
education in improvement of Reproductive health status of youth.
Design & methods: In this operational research, at first we
assessed reproductive health status and needs of Gazvin Medical University
students through recruiting of 1117 students by using quota-sampling method with
self-completed questionnaire contained 43 close questions respecting to
reproductive health. Then based on the results and students preference ‘peer
group program’ considered as an interventional program for improvement of
students’ reproductive health status. For this purpose Peer promoters
selectively recruited among university students and then selected promoters were
adequately trained. The contents of this training course contained of these
topics: Sexual behavior, Sexual difficulties, Consequence of unprotected sex,
Sexual transmitted infections/AIDS, Family planning. After this course they
introduced to the other students through holding seminar, newsletter and so on.
They were counseling with other students and educated them about sexual/Reproductive
health. Scientific committee supervised and supported them during their works.
Results: Based on the pre interventional survey, students have a
middle level of knowledge and positive attitude about reproductive health.
Health belief model of students shows that majority of them perceive the risk of
STDs/ AIDs and they believe the risk is middle and youth ability to practice
health behavior is low or middle.Most of them presume the services are not
adequate and the main barriers of youth reproductive health promotion are
non-advocating environment and low awareness of youth. After intervention, we
preformed focus group discussion (FGD) with students and scientific/executive
committee and also with peer promoters. Lessons learned from peer group
education: The advantage of this program based on qualitative assessment is:
Young people related well to people similar to them in age, background, and
interests. The cultural similarity of peer promoters helped ensure that the
language and messages used are relevant and appropriate. This program has
positive effect in reduction of high-risk behavior. Peer programs allowed for
the direct involvement of young people in their own programs. It was a cost
benefit programs.
Conclusions: Health education interventions are widely seen as the
most appropriate strategy for promoting young people’s sexual/Reproductive
health.
