Chatbots as frontline educators in sexual reproductive health rights: evidence, limitations, and ethical considerations

Abstract

Chatbots are increasingly used in digital health to expand access to information and support user engagement. In sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), where stigma, privacy concerns, and health system constraints often limit timely access to accurate information, chatbots have been proposed as scalable tools for delivering education and facilitating service navigation. This perspective examines the role of chatbots as frontline educators in SRHR, drawing insights from existing evidence to assess the effectiveness of chatbots, practical implications, key limitations, and ethical considerations. Available evidence suggests that chatbots can enhance access to SRHR information, support user engagement, and contribute to improved knowledge, confidence, and linkage to services. However, the current evidence base remains uneven, with limited rigorous evaluation of long-term behavioural or health outcomes. Challenges related to accuracy, contextual responsiveness, privacy, equity, and accountability persist, underscoring the need for careful design and governance. Positioning chatbots as complementary components within integrated SRHR strategies, rather than standalone solutions, may offer a pragmatic pathway to harness their potential while safeguarding user rights and health outcomes.