Abstract

ARAUJO, Maria Suely Peixoto de  and  COSTA, Laura Olinda Bregieiro Fernandes. Sexual behavior and emergency contraception among adolescents from public schools in Pernambuco State, Brazil. Cad. Saúde Pública [online]. 2009, vol.25, n.3, pp. 551-562. ISSN 0102-311X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-311X2009000300010.

This study focused on knowledge and use of emergency contraception among 4,210 adolescents (14-19 years) enrolled in public schools in Pernambuco State, Brazil. Information was collected using the Global School-Based Student Health Survey, previously validated. Knowledge, frequency, and form of use of emergency contraception were investigated. Independent variables were classified as socio-demographic and those related to sexual behavior. Most adolescents reported knowing and having received information about the method, but among those who had already used it, only 22.1% had done so correctly. Adjusted regression analysis showed greater likelihood of knowledge about the method among girls (OR = 5.03; 95%CI: 1.72-14.69) and the sexually initiated (OR = 1.52; 95%CI: 1.34-1.75), while rural residents were 68% less knowledgeable. Rural residents showed 1.68 times higher odds (CI95%: 1.09-2.25) of incorrect use, while girls showed 71% lower likelihood of incorrect use. Sexual and reproductive education is necessary, especially among male and rural adolescents.

Keywords : Contraception; Adolescent; Sexual Behavior.