Are lesbians receiving the sexual health information they need?: A content analysis of Web-based resources

Background: Research suggests lesbians rely on the Internet for sexual health information. However, few studies have examined the content of online sexual health information, especially for this population.

Objectives: (1) To examine Web-based sexual health content for lesbians, and (2) To evaluate readability of these sexual health messages.

Methods: Three search engines (Google, Yahoo!, MSN) were used to identify popular websites using the search term “lesbian sexual health.” Of the top 100 sites listed across search engines, those specifically for lesbians were studied. Up to four webpages per site containing sexual health content were analyzed. Readability was assessed using Flesch-Kincaid (F-K) and Flesch Reading Ease (FRE).

Results: Twenty-five websites were included; 46 webpages were analyzed. Nearly 25% of websites were for-profit organizations (.com). Webpages identified lesbians as being at high risk for human papillomavirus (76%), chlamydia (68%), genital herpes (68%), and bacterial vaginosis (64%). Methods for preventing STI transmission included dental dams (56%), condoms on sex toys (56%), and condoms when having sex with men (48%); 35% did not offer any prevention information. All government-based sites recommended annual preventive care, including mammograms, gynecological exams, and Pap tests. Mean FK was Grade 10.8; FRE was 47.0, indicating difficult reading levels.

Conclusions: Limited sexual health information for lesbians was found online. Content was written at high reading levels and focused on risk behaviors; little information was on prevention or care. Health promotion and communication specialists should focus their efforts on improving sexual health messages to encourage preventive practices among lesbian women.