Contraceptive use and associated factors among Swedish high school students

Abstract

Objectives To investigate self-reported sexual experiences, abortions, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), use of contraception and possible influencing factors on contraceptive use among Swedish high school students.

Methods An anonymous classroom survey was distributed to a random sample (n = 924) of 18-year-old high school students in a medium-sized Swedish city. The response rate was 78% (n = 718).

Results Three out of four students had experienced intercourse and the majority of them stated that they were satisfied with their sexual life. Few students reported having had an abortion (5%) or a STI (4%). Alcohol use appeared the most important contributing risk factor for non-use of contraception in relation to both first and latest intercourse, and the young men reported more unprotected latest intercourse than the young women did.

Conclusion The fact that young men appear less inclined to use contraception is disturbing, and must be addressed in sexual education and individual counseling to promote a better sexual health for adolescents.

Key words:

• High school students
• Sexual experiences
• Induced abortion
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Contraceptive use