Related Experiment Videos
Inconsistent contraceptive use among female college students: implications for intervention
F S Kusseling1, N S Wenger, M F Shapiro
1Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Many college students inconsistently use contraception, with a third reporting unreliable methods. This highlights the need for interventions focusing on consistent contraceptive use to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine
- Contraceptive Technology
Background:
- Contraceptive method selection and consistent use are critical for preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among college students.
- Previous research often relies on single observations, potentially underestimating inconsistent contraceptive use in this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the longitudinal consistency of contraceptive and barrier method use among female college students.
- To assess the reliability of single observations in detecting inconsistent contraceptive use within this population.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study involving 213 female college students attending a student health clinic.
- Assessment of contraceptive and barrier method use at baseline and 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- 33% of participants used unreliable contraception at either baseline or follow-up.
- The majority of students using unreliable methods at follow-up did not report unreliable use at baseline.
- Significant method switching occurred: 31% of oral contraceptive pill users and 43% of condom users exhibited inconsistent use over time.
Conclusions:
- Single observations and cross-sectional studies are insufficient to capture the dynamic nature of contraceptive use in college students.
- Interventions aimed at reducing pregnancy and STI rates must address the consistency of contraceptive method adherence.
- Future research should explore factors influencing inconsistent contraceptive use and develop strategies to promote sustained, reliable practices.