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Table 4 Examples of draft and final versions of SMS text messages from different domains and sub-domains of the ARMADILLO Peru SMS platform

From: Developing an SMS text message intervention on sexual and reproductive health with adolescents and youth in Peru

Domains and Sub-domains

Sample text message1 from sub-domain, draft version created by team during stage 2

Sample text message1 from sub-domain, final version following participant feedback during stage 3

Who am I?

Puberty

“During adolescence the body changes drastically. It’s normal that for some people, these changes are more obvious than for others.”

“During adolescence the body has many physical and emotional changes called puberty. We do NOT all go through the same changes!”

Who am I?

Sexual identity

“We are all born with one sex (man or woman) but not all of us feel good about it. It’s normal! A person is what he or she feels.”

“We are all born with one sex (man or woman) but not all of us feel good about it. It’s normal! The decision is yours.”

Who can support me?

Family

“Nobody is taught to be a parent. Sometimes they want to help you and give you their love, but they do not always know how. Look for moments.”

“Nobody is taught to be a parent. Sometimes they want to help you and give you their love, but they do not always know how to do it. Ask them for support and they will support you!”

Who can support me?

Friends

“A friend does not pressure you to do something you do not want to do. A friend respects your decision.”

“A friend does NOT pressure you to do something you do not want to do. A friend respects your decision.”

Who can support me?

Partners

“A healthy relationship is one that makes you happy. A relationship that only makes you sad isn’t worth it.”

“A healthy relationship is one that makes you happy, where there is mutual appreciation, fidelity, respect and good communication.”

How can I have fun?

With someone else

“To be able to enjoy sex with someone, trust and acceptance are key.”

“Before having sex with someone, you should feel comfortable with that person and also with yourself. Don’t forget to use protection!”

What should I protect myself from?

Pregnancy

“A pregnancy can happen at any time. Even the first time.”

“A pregnancy can happen at any time. Even during your first sexual intercourse. It is true. Be aware!”

What should I protect myself from?

STIs

“If you have had oral, vaginal or anal sex without a condom, get tested for STIs. If you know that your partner has or had an STI, with even more reason.”

“If you have had sex without a condom, get tested for sexually transmitted infections or STIs. Find out more about the topic. The test is FREE.”

How can I protect myself?

Abstinence

“Deciding not to have sex until you find the right person and the right time can be a good decision.”

“Deciding not to have sex until you find the right person and feel prepared is a responsible decision. There’s no rush!”

How can I protect myself?

Condom

“Condoms are not only for vaginal sex. They are also for anal and oral sex. And use a new condom for every erection.”

“The condom should be used for vaginal, anal and oral sex. Remember to use a new condom for every erection!”

How can I protect myself?

Implants and IUDs

“The implant and intrauterine device or IUD are the most effective methods to prevent pregnancy. And they are appropriate for teenagers.”

“The implant and intrauterine device or IUD are the MOST EFFECTIVE methods to prevent pregnancy. And they are appropriate for teenagers!”

What no one talks about

Abortion

“Having an abortion in an informal place or one that offers to resolve ‘menstrual delay’ can lead to the death of the woman.”

“Having an abortion in a clandestine place can cause health problems or even death.”

What no one talks about

Violence

“The more I hit you, the more I love you? NO. No one who hits you can love you. No one who makes you suffer can love you.”

“The more I hit you, the more I love you? This is not right. No one who hits you can love you. No one who makes you suffer can love you. VALUE YOURSELF! “

  1. 1Each sub-domain had 2–10 text messages associated with it