Abstract
This study investigated Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI)+ communities’ experiences of online platforms in sexual health education and agency facilitation. The study aimed to explore how people identifying as LGBTQI+ use online platforms to access sexual health information and agency. The study also aimed to explore guidelines that can be implemented to officialise the online platforms as an alternative for people identifying as LGBTQI+. The study used a qualitative research approach and collected data through a qualitative questionnaire divided into two parts: the biographical information in qualitative questionnaire, and the photovoice. The qualitative questionnaire identified four thematic main themes and sub-themes and provided direct verbatim responses from the participants. The findings of the study revealed that online platforms can provide a safe and anonymous space for people identifying as LGBTQI+ to access sexual health information and can offer individuals a sense of community and belonging, which is particularly important for those who may feel isolated or marginalised. The study also highlighted challenges to accessing online platforms for sexual health education and agency including limited access to technology, online harassment, and the need for more inclusive and culturally sensitive content. The study suggested that the presence of healthcare professionals on online platforms can make the platforms official by providing accurate sexual health information and human agency.
Keywords: LGBTQI+, Online platforms, Agency facilitation, Sexual health education