Digital social network information accessed by youths and its effects on sexual and reproductive health among students at public universities, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2023:A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background- Studies conducted in both developed and developing countries suggest that social media can have both negative and positive impacts on the sexual practices of youth. While it can spread knowledge in various areas, there is a rise in addiction to digital social networks. The correlation between social media exposure and sexual initiation remains complex, but many young people in Ethiopia frequently use social media, raising concerns about its potential risks to their sexual and reproductive health. The aim of this study is to determine and describe the benefits and threats of digital social media information on sexual and reproductive health among public university students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods and Materials The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2023 to October 2023 among youth at selected public universities in Addis Ababa city Administration,Ethiopia to examine digital social network information accessed by youths and its benefits and threats on sexual and reproductive health. A sample size of 413 was determined using a single percentage formula. All consecutive youth who participated during the study period were included. Data was collected using a systematic self-administered questionnaire, which was double-checked for accuracy. The information was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 25, and presented in tables and graphs. Associations were made to demonstrate the effects of variables. Results: 97.5% of respondents actively used various digital social network platforms,71.6% viewed these platforms as reliable sources of sexual reproductive health information, though 45.8% considered them harmful, and 43.2% saw benefits for youth.Over half (52.4%) had encountered sexual initiation content online, and 77.9% felt they lacked sufficient sexual reproductive health information. Frequent digital social network use and absence of sexual reproductive health-related courses at universities were linked to higher engagement in risky sexual behaviors. Specifically, increased digital social network usage was associated with a 2.266 times higher likelihood of such behaviors. The study concluded that unregulated use of digital social network contributes to misconceptions about sexual reproductive health and risky sexual practices. It emphasized the need for comprehensive sexual reproductive health education and accessible services within universities to mitigate these risks.