Knowledge and use of contraceptive methods among university students at public universities

Abstract

Adequate knowledge about contraceptive methods is fundamental for preventing sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies, particularly among university students. The objective of this study was to analyze the level of knowledge about the use and effectiveness of contraceptive methods among students from different faculties of the Autonomous University of Tamaulipas, as well as to evaluate its relationship with their academic area of ​​study. A quantitative, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with 365 students from the faculties of Medicine, Nursing, and Engineering. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire adapted from the Contraception Module of the National Survey of Demographic Dynamics, which included sociodemographic variables and an instrument for assessing contraceptive knowledge. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-squared test. The results showed that a considerable proportion of the students had an insufficient level of knowledge, with statistically significant differences observed among the faculties, and better results in health-related fields. It is concluded that the level of knowledge about contraceptive methods in the university population studied is limited and is associated with academic training, which highlights the need to strengthen comprehensive sexual education strategies in the university setting.