A major study of young people in Italy has revealed a stark paradox: while a vast majority feel comfortable discussing sex, many lack fundamental knowledge about sexual health, contraception, and their own rights, often turning to pornography and the internet for answers.
The research, conducted by Ipsos Doxa for the organisation Medici del Mondo (Doctors of the World), surveyed Italians aged 16 to 25. It found that while 74% are at ease talking about sexuality, this openness is undermined by widespread misinformation and a critical education gap.
A Strong Call for Education in Schools
The desire for formal education is clear. A significant 71% of respondents believe schools should be responsible for sexual and emotional education, with more than half (56%) stating it should be mandatory for all students. This stands in contrast to the 57% who see it as a family responsibility, suggesting a belief that home-based education is not enough on its own.
Despite this demand, the reality of where young people get their information is very different. When seeking information, their primary sources are:
- Internet/Google (50%)
- Friends and peers (30%)
- AI platforms (27%)
Professional medical advice lags far behind, with only 18% turning to a doctor or gynaecologist, even though 86% consider healthcare professionals to be reliable sources on the topic.
The Internet and Porn as Primary Teachers
The study highlights the oversized role of digital media in shaping young people's understanding of sex. For nearly one in three (31%), pornography is the only source from which they have learned about sex. While aware of its pitfalls—with majorities acknowledging it creates unrealistic expectations about performance (64%) and bodies (47%)—its influence as a de facto educator is undeniable.
A Worrying Lack of Health Literacy
Perhaps the most concerning findings relate to sexual health. Despite 74% of young people being worried about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), their knowledge is dangerously low.
- Low Awareness: More than half declared they were poorly informed about common STIs like chlamydia (61%), gonorrhoea (60%), and syphilis (56%).
- Contraception Confusion: A majority incorrectly believe that hormonal methods like the vaginal ring (60%), implant (58%), and patch (56%) protect against STIs. Conversely, 20% wrongly believe male condoms do not offer protection.
- Persistent HIV Myths: Misinformation about HIV remains prevalent. 52% believe it can be transmitted by mosquitoes, 48% via public toilets, and 34% through kissing. At the same time, many are unaware of real transmission routes, such as through sex without a condom or from mother to child during pregnancy.
Rights, Access, and Equity
The knowledge deficit extends to legal and reproductive rights. Over half (55%) of young Italians say they are not informed about their sexual and reproductive rights. This includes significant confusion around the laws governing abortion.
The cost of contraception is also a significant barrier. One in ten young people reported not always using a condom because it was too expensive. This has led to a strong call for change:
- 73% believe contraception should be free for young people.
- 74% want more contraceptive options available for men.
- 70% feel men should be more involved in contraceptive decisions.
While this study focuses on Italy, its findings echo conversations happening across Europe, including in the Netherlands. It serves as a potent reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive, accessible, and fact-based sexual education to empower young people—including our own queer communities—to make safe and informed choices about their bodies and their health.
