Objective: To offer current evidence about age at sexual initiation and contraceptive use among adolescent and adult women of different age groups, places of residence, and marital status in Mexico.
Materials and methods: Data were analyzed from ENSANUT 2006 and 2012 surveys on knowledge and use of contraceptives.
Results: In 2012 31.2% of 15-19 year old adolescent women had undergone sexual debut. Condom use increased from 31.8% in 2006 to 47.8% in 2012. Women in rural areas reported lower levels of contraceptive use at last sexual intercourse; 47.9% of 30-34 year-old and 53.2% of 35-49 year-old women reported not using any contraception at last sexual intercourse. A high percentage of women did not adopt contraception after the most recent obstetric event: 52% (15-19 years), 44.2% (20-29 years), 42.5% (30-34 years) and 39% (≥35 years)].
Conclusions: Equitable policies to promote contraception, particularly after a post-obstetric event, are needed.