[Regional differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practice in emergency contraceptive use among health sciences university students in Brazil]

Cad Saude Publica. 2010 Sep;26(9):1821-31. doi: 10.1590/s0102-311x2010000900015.
[Article in Portuguese]

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate regional differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practice in emergency contraception use among Brazilian university students. A sample of university students answered a semi-structured questionnaire on knowledge, attitudes, and practice related to emergency contraception and sexual behavior. Fisher's exact test and ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Ninety-six percent (n = 588) of the students had heard of emergency contraception, and 19% (n = 111) knew all the situations in which emergency contraception is indicated, with statistical differences between regions of the country. Forty-two percent of sexually active women in the sample had already used emergency contraception; 35% (n = 207) of students equated emergency contraception with abortion; and 81% (n = 473) thought emergency contraception involves health risks. No significant difference was observed between regions of the country regarding use and attitudes towards emergency contraception. Inter-regional differences in knowledge had no impact on students' attitudes and practice in emergency contraception. National awareness-raising campaigns are needed to improve knowledge on emergency contraception.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Brazil
  • Contraceptives, Postcoital* / administration & dosage
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology*
  • Sexual Behavior / statistics & numerical data
  • Students, Medical / psychology*
  • Students, Medical / statistics & numerical data
  • Universities
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Contraceptives, Postcoital