A qualitative study on contraceptive use among young female university students: what still matters?

In South Africa fertility rates have been steadily declining, although unplanned pregnancies among young women are high. At the same time, contraceptive prevalence rates are steadily rising. The purpose of this study was to explore the use of contraceptives among White, female university students. The study participants comprised a sample of 10 female students. An interview guide was used to explore areas in greater depth. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim, thereafter the researchers used thematic analysis to derive emergent themes. The findings indicate that there is a high level of awareness of contraceptive use among the participants. The main reasons for contraceptive use was to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Participants also reported using contraceptives for other health-related reasons such as treatment of acne and regulation of menstrual cycle. The main barrier to use was the fear of contraceptive side effects. Existing initiatives should take into account the prominent barriers affecting uptake, such as misinformation, in an effort to promote use of modern contraceptives.