Factors associated with sexual health literacy among adolescents attending private high schools in İstanbul

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate sexual health literacy among adolescents and examine its associations with reproductive health knowledge, family communication, avoidance of sexual health discussions, and sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive correlational study was conducted among 235 adolescents aged 14-18 years attending private high schools in İstanbul, Turkiye. Data were collected using a sociodemographic characteristics form, a researcher-developed 16-item reproductive and sexual health knowledge questionnaire, and the Sexual Health Literacy Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Chi-square test, and Spearman correlation analysis. Results: Higher sexual health literacy scores were significantly associated with greater knowledge regarding hormonal changes during adolescence, the menstrual cycle, and contraceptive methods (p<0.001). Adolescents who reported open communication with family members about sexual health issues and those who did not avoid discussing sexual health topics demonstrated significantly higher literacy scores (p<0.001). Additionally, higher socioeconomic status and living in a nuclear family were associated with higher sexual health literacy levels (p<0.05). Differences in sexual attitude scores were also observed according to family structure (p<0.05). Conclusion: Sexual health literacy in adolescents is associated with reproductive health knowledge, family communication, and sociodemographic characteristics. These findings highlight the importance of family-centered and school-based interventions aimed at improving adolescents’ sexual health literacy. Future studies including adolescents from both public and private schools with more diverse socioeconomic backgrounds are needed to improve the generalizability of these findings. Integrating sexual health literacy into adolescent health and public health programs may contribute to improved long-term health outcomes.