Sexual health literacy as a predictor of reproductive health and family planning attitudes among university students: a cross-sectional study

Introduction: This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between sexual health literacy (SHL) and reproductive health and family planning (RHFP) attitudes among university students and to identify the sociodemographic and informational predictors influencing these variables. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 867 university students aged 18-35 in Türkiye between May and September 2024. Data were collected using a Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the Sexual Health Literacy Scale (SHLS), and the Reproductive Health and Family Planning Attitude Scale (RHFPAS). Data analysis included Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression models to determine predictors and relationships. Results: The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between SHL and RHFP attitudes (r = 0.880, P < .05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that total SHLS scores and students’ conceptual definitions of sexual health were significant predictors of RHFP attitudes. In particular, the knowledge and attitude subscales of the SHLS were identified as key determinants. Furthermore, residence type, sexual activity status, and information sources were found to significantly influence both SHL levels and RHFP attitudes. Discussion: SHL is a critical determinant in shaping the RHFP attitudes of young adults. Higher literacy levels directly correlate with more positive attitudes toward reproductive health services, suggesting that targeted educational interventions are necessary to improve health outcomes in this population.