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Abstract
In this study a matched intervention–control site design in 14 urban health centers with random selection of 160 participants (80 in each of intervention and control) was used to evaluate a sex education program in Iran. Qualitative methods were used in a needs assessment that also set the content and method of delivery of the program. The intervention consisted of training health providers to deliver a short educational program to female clients. Evaluation questionnaires were completed before and six weeks after the intervention. Analysis of the data showed no significant difference in demographic characteristics of the study and control groups. The program demonstrated a statistically significant impact on knowledge and attitudes. There was also a statistically significant change in intentions and behavior. This study showed that even in societies where people's religious and cultural background and strict rules and laws might seem to make sexual education an impossible task, choosing the location and target population based on cultural norms, and the educational content based on the target group's needs and cultural and religious background, can pave the road to success.
Acknowledgement
This study was funded by the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research, Tehran, Iran, under contract # 240/7659 (dated 13 March 2004). The authors would like to acknowledge the cooperation of directors, physicians and family planning service providers of the study and control health centers.
Notes
1. Iran hosted nearly two million Afghan refugees at the time of this study. It is probable that Afghan women are different from Iranians in terms of sexual matters, because of their particular culture, their recent experiences with war and their refugee situation. Many were resident in Tehran and could be clients of the UHCs. For the purposes of this study, only Iranian‐born women were eligible.