Sexual health knowledge of individuals applying for premarital health reports in Edirne city center

The aim of our study is to determine the level of sexual health knowledge of individuals applying for premarital health reports in Edırne city center and to raise awareness on this issue. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 380 participants who applied to 59 family medicine units in Edirne. Data were collected through a questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, sexually transmitted diseases and transmission routes, prevention behaviors, and the 40-item Sexual Health Knowledge Test. The mean age of the participants was 28.9±4.08 years, of whom 57.6% were female and 42.4% male. A total of 74.5% reported planning to use family planning methods after marriage, with condoms being the most preferred method due to ease of use. The average SHKT score was found to be at a moderate level, with women scoring significantly higher than men. Regression analysis revealed that higher education level (p<0,040), being a healthcare professional (p<0,016), place of residence (p<0,007), and the intention to use family planning (p<0,047) had a positive effect on Sexual Health Knowledge test scores. Participants who obtained information from school or healthcare professionals scored higher. Most participants stated that they would like to receive sexual health education before marriage and considered healthcare professionals as the most reliable source of information. In conclusion, increasing sexual health awareness in society requires the active involvement of family physicians and other healthcare professionals. Regular and comprehensive sexual health education provided within family medicine units may contribute to individuals' ability to make informed decisions and provide significant benefits for both individual and public health.