Fertility Knowledge and Its Determinants Among Japanese Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study Using the Cardiff...

To assess fertility knowledge among Japanese medical students using the Japanese version of the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale and to identify associated factors.

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of first- through sixth-year students at Kawasaki Medical School. Fertility knowledge was assessed using the 13-item Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale-Japanese version (CFKS-J), scored as the percentage of correct responses. Scores across academic years were compared using one-way analysis of variance. Factors associated with the continuous knowledge score and with high fertility knowledge (≥ 80%) were examined using multivariable linear and logistic regression models, adjusting for academic year and key covariates.

A total of 613 students were included. The mean fertility knowledge score was 72.7%. Scores increased from the first to third year and then plateaued (from 55.0% in first-year to 83.5% in sixth-year students; p < 0.001). Item-level analysis showed particularly low correct responses for the obesity-related item and lower accuracy for items on mumps in males, amenorrhea and the possibility of conception, and sexually transmitted infections. In multivariable models, higher academic year was independently associated with higher knowledge, whereas not remembering whether sex education had been sufficient and not remembering having thought about age at childbearing were associated with lower scores. High fertility knowledge was less likely among students who had never learned about fertility or preconception care.

Fertility knowledge among Japanese medical students improved in earlier years but plateaued thereafter. Recall- and awareness-related factors and item-specific gaps highlight targets for curriculum-based fertility and preconception education.