Interpretation of refusal to use contraceptive methods in university students through systematic literature review

Abstract

The interpretation of the refusal to use contraceptive methods in university students is important because it helps to understand the beliefs, attitudes and behaviors regarding sexual and reproductive health in this demographic group, and also allows the identification of possible cultural, educational or access barriers that may be affecting decision making related to the use of contraceptives. The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the causes of refusal to use contraceptive methods in university students based on a systematic literature review. For the development of the research, a search of electronic documents was carried out in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Medline and Embase. Fourteen scientific articles were selected by applying the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, using descriptors such as: ("level of knowledge about contraceptive methods" OR "refusal to use contraceptive methods") AND ("University students") and an evaluation of the quality of the articles based on the use of the STROBE guidelines. The results reflected that most studies agree that students are knowledgeable about contraceptive methods, but do not use contraceptives for the most part. The main causes of refusal are related to inappropriate sexual behaviors, alcohol and drug abuse, early age of sexual debut, gender stereotypes, religion, lack of family counseling, and misuse of contraceptives. Currently, the education and training of students is a key factor in the prevention of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases