How Technology Is Changing Sexual Reproductive Health Conversations
The way people seek information is changing. A young person with a question may not ask a parent, teacher or health worker. They may reach for their phone. Within seconds, they can search the internet, watch a video, read a post, join a discussion or send a private message. Technology has changed how we communicate and it is changing how people learn about sexual reproductive health.
The Phone in Our Hands Can Be a Powerful Tool
For many young people, digital platforms offer something traditional spaces sometimes cannot: privacy. Someone afraid to ask a question publicly may feel more comfortable searching privately. Someone facing stigma may find comfort in an online community. Someone far from a health facility may discover information about available services.
Technology can bring sexual and reproductive health information closer to people. But there is another side.
When Misinformation Goes Viral
The internet does not always provide accurate information. A misleading video can reach thousands. A false claim about contraception can be shared repeatedly. A post can turn a myth into apparent fact simply because many people have seen it.
How do we help people tell information from misinformation? The answer is not to tell people to stop using social media. Instead, we need to strengthen digital health literacy, the ability to question information, identify credible sources, verify claims and seek professional guidance when necessary.
Technology Can Help Change Social Norms
Digital platforms do more than spread information. They influence what people believe is normal. A campaign can challenge harmful stereotypes. A short video can encourage men to support family planning. A young woman can share a positive experience of seeking health information. A community organisation can use digital platforms to challenge myths and move conversations once considered taboo into spaces where people feel safer discussing them.
From Scrolling to Seeking Support
There is a difference between consuming information and knowing what to do with it. Someone may watch a video about contraception but still have questions. Someone may read about a health condition but need professional guidance. Someone may discover a service online but not know how to access it.
Digital platforms should therefore connect people to trusted information, counselling, referrals and appropriate health services. Technology should not replace health workers and community engagement. It should strengthen them.
In Uganda, COHERINET’s Aunt KAKI toll-free helpline is one way to take that next step. People with questions about sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) can call 0800 347 347 for information, guidance and referrals. The helpline offers a direct, confidential route from online information to support, especially for people who may feel uncomfortable asking questions publicly.
Digital conversations should always protect privacy. Avoid posting personal or sensitive health details in public comments; contact a trusted service privately when individual guidance is needed.
Young People Are Not Just Consumers
Young people are also creators. They produce videos, share stories, start conversations, create campaigns and influence their peers. This gives them an important role in transforming social norms.
Imagine young people creating content that challenges myths about contraception. Imagine young men discussing respectful relationships online. Imagine girls and young women sharing messages that encourage others to seek accurate information. Imagine communities using social media not only for entertainment, but also to promote healthier conversations.
We Need Safer Digital Conversations
As we expand the use of technology for sexual and reproductive health, we must also think about privacy, confidentiality and safety. People should protect their personal information and avoid sharing sensitive details publicly. Organisations providing digital health information must ensure that communication is respectful, accurate and confidential.
The goal is to create digital spaces where people can seek information without exposure to unnecessary harm or judgment.
Technology Is a Tool, People Create the Change
A phone cannot transform a social norm on its own. A post cannot replace a trusted conversation. An online campaign cannot solve every barrier to healthcare. But technology can open doors. It can start conversations. It can challenge myths. It can connect people to information. It can give young people a voice. And it can help communities reach people who might otherwise remain silent.
The question is not whether technology will influence sexual and reproductive health conversations. It already does. The question is: what kind of influence will we create?
Let us use technology to spread facts instead of fear. Let us use digital platforms to connect people instead of isolate them. Let us create content that informs rather than misleads, and ensure every digital conversation leads people towards trusted information, support and appropriate services.
The conversation starts with us, both offline and online.
Join the Conversation
Have a question about sexual and reproductive health? Reach out to Aunt KAKI through COHERINET’s toll-free helpline on 0800 347 347. Share this article, challenge misinformation respectfully and follow COHERINET’s official platforms for more SRHR information and updates.
Are you a young person, educator, health worker or community organisation using digital platforms to promote accurate sexual and reproductive health information? We want to hear from you. Partner with us to expand digital health literacy, challenge misinformation and connect more people to trusted support. Write to us at coherinet@gmail.com.