INTRODUCTION: Young Black/African American women experience disproportionately high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies in the U.S. Persistent disparities in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) are influenced by multiple factors like access to SRH resources and fragmented Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE). This study developed and pilot tested a culturally responsive, Instagram-based CSE intervention designed to improve SRH education among young Black/AA women.

METHODS: A sequential mixed methods design was utilized. Phase I consisted of formative research using focus groups to identify Black/AA women’s SRH knowledge, attitudes, experiences, and barriers that informed the development Healthy Bodies. The intervention was guided by the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) Guidelines, Social Cognitive Theory, and patient navigation (PN) principles. Followed by Phase II, the 6-week Instagram-based intervention for young Black/AA women and evaluated feasibility and acceptability using post-intervention surveys and semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS: Findings from Phase I demonstrated that existing CSE experiences were fragmented, unrealistic, and lack cultural relevance as well as actionable information needed to support SRH decision-making. Participants (N=24) emphasized the need for more comprehensive, relatable, and practical information that informed the adaption of Healthy Bodies curriculum and the integration of PN principles. Following intervention implementation, quantitative results (N=23) indicated that Healthy Bodies did not meet the predetermined benchmark of 80% for feasibility and acceptability, except for one survey item. However, qualitative findings suggested that lower ratings reflected limitations in the Instagram delivery than the curriculum itself. Participants perceived the content as comprehensive, visually appealing, culturally relevant and supportive of SRH knowledge and health seeking-behavior. Greater us of Instagram features were commended to improve engagement and reach.

CONCLUSION: Overall, Healthy Bodies could potentially be a viable option to implementing CSE on Instagram. Although implementation refinements are necessary, findings suggest that digital CSE programs grounded in community input, theory, and implementation science may improve access to accurate, actionable SRH information for minority populations affected by adverse SRH outcomes.