Playing a serious game to increase fertility awareness: perceptions of adolescents, parents and teachers

Infertility is increasing globally, affecting one in six adults due to factors like delayed childbearing and lifestyle changes. Despite the recognition of the importance of increasing fertility awareness, levels remain low. This study evaluated the perceptions of 'FActs!', a serious game aimed at improving adolescents' fertility awareness. The narratives of adolescents, parents and teachers about the utility of this tool and its educational potential were also addressed using focus groups. The game (https://myfacts.eu/) comprises 12 questions (birth year, biological sex, country and nine questions addressing fertility topics (probability of conceiving, the definition of infertility, and fertility risk factors such as age, smoking, alcohol, drugs and physical exercise). These questions emerge from four scenarios: a school playground, a party, a gym and a sibling's house. Players receive immediate feedback about their answers and brief educational information to improve their knowledge. Players accumulate stars for correct answers as they progress through the scenarios and answer the questions. Findings revealed that 'FActs!' effectively engages adolescents and enhances their understanding of fertility. Adolescents, parents and teachers responded positively, appreciating its interactive nature and ability to facilitate discussions on reproductive health. However, limitations such as the need for more comprehensive information and high reading requirements were noted. The study highlights the importance of integrating comprehensive fertility education into health curricula using diverse, engaging methods. It also underscores the necessity of supporting parents and teachers to improve their comfort and capability in discussing fertility. "FActs!" is a valuable tool with the potential for broader educational contexts. Future research should quantitatively assess "FActs!" across various demographics and include interventions to boost fertility awareness among parents and teachers, thereby enhancing their support for adolescents' informed reproductive choices.