The role of digital health tools in sexual and reproductive health for underserved adolescent girls and young women

Abstract

Adolescent girls and young women around the world face significant challenges in accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and care services, particularly in low to middle-income countries. This study explores the role of digital health (DH) tools in addressing the SRH needs of this population in resource-constrained settings. Applying a multidisciplinary theoretical lens, including concepts like empowerment theory, health equity, intersectionality, and adolescent-specific frameworks, the research examines the effectiveness of digital interventions in overcoming SRH access barriers and improving health outcomes. Through a set of interviews, six digital SRH tools and initiatives were analysed, highlighting their diverse strategies for addressing critical gaps in SRH education, engagement, and service delivery. Findings reveal the importance of culturally relevant content, offline functionalities, and systemic integration to ensure inclusivity and sustainability. However, challenges such as digital divides, limited scalability, and sustainability gaps persist. The revised framework proposed in this thesis emphasizes the interconnected nature of individual agency, systemic equity, and adolescent-specific needs. Key recommendations include enhancing partnerships, integrating tools into health systems, and prioritizing user-centred, culturally adapted approaches. The study concludes that while DH tools hold significant promise in bridging SRH access gaps for underserved adolescents, their success depends on systemic integration and addressing structural inequities. Policymakers, practitioners, and developers must focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term sustainability to maximize impact. This research contributes to the understanding of DH tools as part of comprehensive strategies for achieving equitable SRH outcomes globally.

Date of Award	27 Jan 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Henrique Martins (Supervisor)