Issue:

Teens who use a method of contraception may not realize that most birth control methods offer little or no protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Project:

Create a multi-media presentation running on a computer to help teens understand that two methods of protection are needed to prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Link that presentation to up to three appropriate websites including one on condom use. Make sure that the intervention takes no more than the average 15 minutes waiting time in a teen clinic.

Result:

• 100% of those who viewed the “It Takes 2” presentation said that looking at it was either extremely helpful or very helpful.

• 98% of those who viewed “It Takes 2” thought they would be more likely to use two methods of protection the next time they had sex.

• Months later, 73% of those who viewed the “It Takes 2” presentation said they actually did use two methods of protection more often (in contrast with only 53% of those who did not view the presentation).

This study finding suggests such activities hold significant promise.