EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE AND CONTRACEPTIVE PRACTICES AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS AT A PRIVATE COLLEGE IN THE WEST OF THE STATE OF PARANÁ

Abstract

The approach to sexual and reproductive health related to physical, mental, and social well-being is fundamental in the lives of all women. When not given due importance, it significantly affects the quality of life of women around the world. The availability and access to accurate information about contraceptive methods (CM) play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing unwanted pregnancies and, consequently, sexually transmitted diseases. Considering the proposed context for this work, we sought to determine the pattern of CM usage among female medical students at a private university center in western Paraná. The following data were analyzed: the chosen CMs, the justifications for such choices, their adverse effects, and the influence of technical knowledge on the decision-making process regarding the choice of method. According to the results obtained, the predominant age range of the female students using CMs is between 18 and 25 years, with 91.5% of them stating they use some form of CM. The most commonly used method was barrier methods (43.7%), followed by combined hormonal pills (39.9%). Therefore, it can be inferred that short-acting CMs are the most preferred among those evaluated. The results highlight the importance of providing basic information about contraception, even in university contexts where greater knowledge on the subject is presumed.