(170) Understanding Sexual Health Knowledge, Needs, and Comfort in Adolescents Presenting to Urologic Care: A Descriptive Survey

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Abstract Introduction Adolescents with urologic conditions often experience unique physical and psychosocial challenges that can impact their sexual development and health. Despite being in frequent contact with healthcare providers, their sexual health needs are frequently overlooked or inadequately addressed. Understanding their knowledge, concerns, and comfort around sexual health is critical to providing developmentally appropriate, inclusive care. This study aimed to assess sexual health knowledge, concerns, and communication comfort levels among adolescents presenting to a pediatric urology clinic. Objective This study aimed to assess sexual health knowledge, concerns, and communication comfort levels among adolescents presenting to a pediatric urology clinic. Methods A cross-sectional, anonymous survey was conducted with 25 adolescents aged 12–18 years, including both male and female participants seen in either pediatric urology or pulmonology clinics. The survey was administered between April 2024 and February 2025 and assessed sexual activity, comfort discussing sex, exposure to sex education, use of online resources, access to support, privacy for sexual exploration, and sexual self-esteem. Exclusion criteria were non-English speaking participants and those with cognitive impairments, either documented or observed. Results Common reasons for visits included kidney health and varicocele. Most (80%) reported not being sexually active, and while 76% had received some form of sex education, only 48% found it helpful. Comfort discussing sex varied, with 28% feeling "somewhat comfortable," 28% neutral, and 20% somewhat uncomfortable. Only 20% used online sources to learn about sex. Very few (4%) expressed interest in discussing ways to improve sexual activities, and none reported needing help with masturbation or partnered sex. Despite this, 52% lacked access to trusted support or resources. While 56% reported having privacy for sexual exploration, 24% either were unsure or did not have privacy. Most (88%) had no concerns about fertility, though 12% were unsure. Self-esteem related to sexuality was mostly neutral (48%), with 28% reporting high, and 24% reporting low to very low levels. Sexual issues impacting self-esteem were uncommon, with 4% each reporting erectile dysfunction, anorgasmia, low interest in sex, or other concerns. Conclusions Adolescents in urologic care settings report low sexual activity and limited engagement with online or clinical resources for sexual health. While most have received sex education, less than half found it helpful, highlighting a notable disconnect between receipt of sex education and perceived helpfulness. Many adolescents lack trusted support, express uncertainty about privacy for sexual exploration, and report neutral or low sexual self-esteem. These findings underscore the need for tailored, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate sexual health resources that address privacy, confidence, and access to support. It is important though to note the limitation of administration in a clinic setting. Disclosure No

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