Effects of health education on family planning for Quilombola adolescents: a quasi-experimental study

Purpose This study aims to evaluate whether an educational intervention on family planning for adolescents increases the knowledge level of the Quilombola community. Design/methodology/approach A quasi-experimental study. Pre- and post-intervention observations were conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess knowledge of family planning among Quilombola adolescents. Findings Five adolescents participated in the study, with a mean age of 15 (±1.73) years; none of the participants were working and 100% lived with their parents. There was a significant improvement in the knowledge of family planning and contraceptive methods among adolescents from Quilombola communities after the educational intervention. Although significant progress was made in certain aspects of knowledge during the educational interventions, significant gaps remain, especially in the understanding of emergency contraception and the correct use of contraceptive methods, including during menstruation. Originality/value Educational interventions had a positive impact on improving family planning knowledge among Quilombola adolescents. The results show that educational strategies gain an enriching dimension when they include the presence of researchers who are not only dedicated to the study but are also an active part of these communities.