The most important sexual health topics among youth

Abstract

The aim. To analyze changes in demand for sexual education topics among Lithuanian youth aged 14–29, focusing on shifts in 2017 and 2023. Methods. An online survey was distributed via email and Facebook to student councils of 20 Lithuanian universities, 23 colleges, and 517 high schools. Results. A total of 3,530 respondents participated. In 2017, the most popular topic among males was “visiting the urologist” (67.3%), which shifted to “sexual intercourse” (63.0%) by 2023 (p < 0.001). Females consistently showed interest in the “importance of gynecologist appointments”, with an increase from 64.0% in 2017 to 68.2% in 2023 (p < 0.001), while interest in contraception remained steady (59.4% in 2017 vs. 57.4% in 2023, p > 0.05). Across both genders, “sexual intercourse” was the most sought-after topic throughout both periods. Conclusions. While some preferences shifted over time, “sexual intercourse” remained the dominant topic of interest among Lithuanian youth.