Exploring the factors influencing health promotion on reproductive health and sexual education among adolescent girls with intellectual disabilities: a qualitative study at special schools in Padang, Indonesia

Objectives Adolescents with intellectual disabilities are particularly vulnerable to reproductive health issues, unsafe sexual behaviors, and harassment. However, they can understand reproductive health and sexuality through promotional activities in schools. This study aimed to determine the factors that influence health promotion among adolescent girls with intellectual disabilities in special schools.Methods Qualitative data were collected from 18 participants through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data transcription was examined using thematic analysis.Results Special schools facilitated reproductive health and sexual education on ‘Self-development’ and in special meeting sessions. However, stigma, family care, teachers’ competence, and sex education culture affected the health of adolescent girls with intellectual disabilities. Cooperation among various parties has been difficult, and monitoring and evaluation activities have not yet been well-established.Conclusions To improve the reproductive health of adolescent girls with intellectual disabilities, all aspects must support the implementation of health promotion, including policies, environmental conditions, community movements, preventive and promotional implementation, cooperation, and evaluation processes.