Female university students in Sweden: sex, contraception and STDs

Female university students (n = 241) visiting the Student Health Center participated in a study concerning sexual behavior (study I). A randomized postal survey (study II) with similar questions was also performed to verify the findings in the first study (n = 137). The mean age was 23 years in both studies. Sexual experience was reported by 96% in study I and 87% in study II. Mean age at first intercourse and mean number of partners were similar; 17.6 years and 6 partners, respectively. Change of contraceptive type was frequent, and about one third had done so within the past two years. A common reason for adopting a new method was a change in social life. More than half the women were afraid of using oral contraceptives. Twenty-six percent of the students in study I and 29% in study II had had at least one sexually transmitted disease (STD). Forty-three percent claimed to have changed their sexual behavior as a result of AIDS publicity but condoms were used by less than 50% at the first intercourse with a new partner. Although this group of intelligent young people have access to information, many of them were risk-takers with respect to both unwanted pregnancies and STD. Misconceptions were frequent concerning the safety of OCs. It is clear that new approaches must be made to educate them about safe sexual practices.