EDUCAÇÃO SEXUAL CRÍTICA COMO ESTRATÉGIA PARA PREVENÇÃO DA GRAVIDEZ PRECOCE: relato de experiência no ensino médio

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Teenage pregnancy remains a significant public health challenge in Brazil, negatively affecting the educational, professional, and social lives of vulnerable adolescents. Several factors contribute to the persistence of this issue, such as misinformation, lack of family dialogue, and the inadequate approach to sexuality within school environments. OBJECTIVE: This experience report aimed to analyze the importance of sexual education in schools as a strategy to prevent early pregnancy. METHODOLOGY: The action was carried out by nursing students from the State University of Maranhão (UEMA) through a conversation circle with third-year high school students from a public school in Balsas, Maranhão. The activity created a space for active listening and guidance on topics such as sexuality, contraceptive methods, and reproductive rights, using accessible and welcoming language adapted to the students’ reality. In addition to the practical activity, a literature review was conducted to provide theoretical support for the issues addressed, ensuring scientific grounding for the intervention. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The results revealed significant gaps in the sexual education of adolescents, expressed through frequent doubts regarding the use of contraceptive methods, the risks of emergency contraception, and signs of reproductive complications. There was also a noticeable difficulty in establishing dialogue with family members, and a lack of continuous and adequate discussion on sexuality within the school setting. These factors increase vulnerability to early pregnancy and highlight the essential role of nursing professionals in educational initiatives that promote sexual and reproductive health. The literature reinforces the importance of sexual education guided by ethical, scientific, and participatory principles as a crucial strategy for strengthening adolescent autonomy. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: It is concluded that sexual education, when conducted in an ethical, scientific, and participatory manner, contributes significantly to the promotion of adolescent sexual and reproductive health. Implementing conversation circles and other active methodologies within schools strengthens youth autonomy, reduces vulnerabilities, and encourages conscious sexual behavior.