Alcohol use and contraception in first sexual experiences

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Substance use during sexual activity is a concern for reproductive health.
• Previous research suggests a link between substance use and nonuse of contraception.
• Understanding historical trends is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between substance use and contraception use at first intercourse.
• To investigate how this association has changed over time, particularly in relation to the AIDS era.
• To analyze data from a nationally representative sample of young adults.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of a nationally representative sample of adolescents and young adults (aged 18-30).
• Survey questions focused on the circumstances and characteristics of first sexual intercourse.
• Statistical analysis to identify correlations between substance use and contraception use at first intercourse, considering cohort effects.

Main Results:

• Drinking at first intercourse was more common in cohorts who first had sex before 1985.
• These earlier cohorts were less likely to use contraception (e.g., condoms) during first intercourse.
• The association between drinking and nonuse of contraception was significant only for those whose first intercourse occurred before 1985.

Conclusions:

• Historical factors, including the emergence of the AIDS epidemic, influenced the relationship between substance use and contraception at first intercourse.
• Contraception use at first sex has evolved, with substance use playing a role in earlier cohorts.
• Findings underscore the importance of considering historical context in sexual health research and interventions.