INTRODUCTION: Sexual health services are limited and inadequate to reduce factors that hinder treatment and adequate care, despite the growing interest for public awareness and prevention strategies. AIM: The aim of this study was to present an integrative conceptual framework, which led to the development of a model of alternative sexual health services and the 10-year experience of the practice of the service. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Multiple-level needs assessments. METHODS: The conceptual framework is composed of four distinct elements: (i) it adopts a social/ecological perspective; (ii) it assumes that results are optimal when multiple interventions are used; (iii) interventions are influenced by behavioral theories; and (iv) sexual health is conceptualized through the biopsychosocial model. Based on this model, a Sexual and Reproductive Health Center was developed, dedicated to research, education, and public awareness. RESULTS: Over 10 years of experience show that the present approach constitutes a process which: (i) facilitates our understanding of the needs at individual, community, and system level; and (ii) increases the individuals', community and systems' capacity to control sexual health. CONCLUSION: Alternative models for sexual and reproductive health services should be encouraged, in order for best practices to be explored and identified. In addition, future research in the effectiveness of such interventions shall be beneficial in order for evidence-based interventions to be designed.
INTRODUCTION: Sexual health services are limited and inadequate to reduce factors that hinder treatment and adequate care, despite the growing interest for public awareness and prevention strategies. AIM: The aim of this study was to present an integrative conceptual framework, which led to the development of a model of alternative sexual health services and the 10-year experience of the practice of the service. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Multiple-level needs assessments. METHODS: The conceptual framework is composed of four distinct elements: (i) it adopts a social/ecological perspective; (ii) it assumes that results are optimal when multiple interventions are used; (iii) interventions are influenced by behavioral theories; and (iv) sexual health is conceptualized through the biopsychosocial model. Based on this model, a Sexual and Reproductive Health Center was developed, dedicated to research, education, and public awareness. RESULTS: Over 10 years of experience show that the present approach constitutes a process which: (i) facilitates our understanding of the needs at individual, community, and system level; and (ii) increases the individuals', community and systems' capacity to control sexual health. CONCLUSION: Alternative models for sexual and reproductive health services should be encouraged, in order for best practices to be explored and identified. In addition, future research in the effectiveness of such interventions shall be beneficial in order for evidence-based interventions to be designed.