Publications

This study assessed the prevalence and factors influencing contraceptive usage among 377third-year medical students through a descriptive cross-sectional approach. Utilizingqualitative and quantitative data analyzed via SPSS, findings revealed compelling insights. Ofthe sampled students, 78.5% were sexually active, with 58.7% utilizing contraceptives while38.0% did not. Most (73.1%) were unmarried, while 25.7% were married. Regardingcontraceptive knowledge, 94% were aware, with 81.7% knowing how to use and 91.1% aware ofaccess points. Information sources varied: 44.3% from school, 35.4% from healthcareproviders, and 10.6% from media. While 52.3% knew about conception timing, barriers tooptimal knowledge persisted, notably concerning emergency and rhythm methods. Despite apositive attitude towards contraceptive use (95.7% believing it necessary), nuances emerged.For instance, 54.3% agreed on male involvement in contraceptive decisions, while 42.0%disagreed. The study highlights the prevailing 58.7% contraceptive prevalence among thirdyearmedical students, showcasing reasonable awareness and positive attitudes. However,gaps in knowledge, especially regarding specific methods, persist, alongside barriers relatedto efficacy, side effects, and misconceptions about sexual activity. Addressing these gapscould enhance comprehensive understanding and promote informed contraceptive choicesamong this demographic.Keywords: Contraceptive use, Third-year Medical Students, Contraceptive methods, Sexualintercourse, Side effects of the methods.