KNOWLEDGE ABOUT UNPLANNED PREGANCIES, HIV, AND STI, AND SEXUAL RESILIENCE IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Introduction: In Mexico and in the world, the Human Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a problem that goes beyond the scope of public health, converging with psychological, social, ethical, economic, political and human rights factors, among others. Objective: to identify the relationship between knowledge about unplanned pregnancies, HIV and STIs, and sexual resilience in adolescents. Methods: The study was transversal, the population was composed of adolescents between 14 and 17 years old, students of the first semester of high school. Sampling was by cluster per group and the sample size was 250 adolescents. Results: The measurement instruments showed acceptable reliability measures. Of the adolescents surveyed, 57.2% were female, with a mean age of 15.92 (SD=.52). There was a mean of 15.24 (SD=4.32) in terms of knowledge of HIV, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. Sexual resilience also averaged 55.25 (SD=15.50). Mann Whitney's U-test was performed, with women showing greater acceptance than men (M=3.84, SD=3.87, p<.044). Knowledge about HIV, STIs, and unplanned pregnancy was found to be related to sexual resilience (p<.05) and personal competence (p< .01). While personal competence (p< .01) and acceptance of self and life (p< .05) were significantly related to sexual resilience. Conclusion: Therefore, it is important to point out that the level of knowledge that adolescents possess in these areas will make a difference in their optimal health status and the preventive measures they employ to stay away from risks, and it is essential that they strengthen their resilience to face sexual adversity.