scholarly journals Beliefs and misconceptions about contraception and condom use among adolescents in south-east Nigeria

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chinyere Ojiugo Mbachu ◽  
Ifunanya Clara Agu ◽  
Chinonso Obayi ◽  
Irene Eze ◽  
Nkoli Ezumah ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Misconceptions about the usefulness of condoms and other contraceptives still expose many unmarried adolescents to the risk of unwanted teenage pregnancies and sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). This study explored beliefs and misconceptions about condoms and other contraceptives among adolescents in Ebonyi state, south-east Nigeria. Method: A qualitative study was undertaken in six local government areas in Ebonyi state, southeast Nigeria. Data were collected within a period of one month from in and out-of-school adolescents aged 13 to 18 years using twelve focus group discussions (FGD). The data was analyzed using the thematic framework approach. Result: Majority of the adolescents were knowledgeable about methods of contraception, how they are used and their modes of action. They were also knowledgeable about the dual effects of condoms in prevention of pregnancy and STIs. However, some misconceptions that were expressed by some adolescents were that pregnancy could be prevented by the use of i) hard drugs, ii) laxatives, iii) white chlorine, and iv) boiled alcoholic beverages. Condoms were described by some adolescent boys as reusable. Condoms were also perceived by some adolescents to reduce sexual pleasure, and this opinion was mostly held by boys. Coitus interruptus (withdrawal method) was therefore considered more preferable than condoms for prevention of pregnancy. Conclusion: Although majority adolescents have knowledge about contraception and condom use, some misconceptions still persist. These misconceptions put many adolescents at increased risk for pregnancy and STIs which are detrimental to their health and wellbeing. Concerted efforts should be made through educational and behavior change interventions in schools and within communities to debunk persisting misconceptions about contraception, and properly educate adolescents on safe sex practices.

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chinyere Ojiugo Mbachu ◽  
Ifunanya Clara Agu ◽  
Chinonso Obayi ◽  
Irene Eze ◽  
Nkoli Ezumah ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Misconceptions about the usefulness of condoms and other contraceptives in preventing unwanted teenage pregnancies and sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) among unmarried adolescents, still expose many adolescents to the risk of both conditions due to certain misconceptions. This study explored beliefs and misconceptions about condoms and other contraceptives among adolescents in Ebonyi state, south-east Nigeria. Method: A qualitative study was undertaken in six local government areas in Ebonyi state, southeast Nigeria. Data was collected within a period of one month from in and out-of-school adolescents aged 13 to 18 years using twelve focus group discussions (FGD). The data was analyzed using the thematic framework approach. Result: Majority of the adolescents were knowledgeable about methods of contraception, how they are used and their modes of action. They were also knowledgeable about the dual effects of condoms for prevention of pregnancy and STIs. However, some misconceptions that were expressed by some adolescents were that pregnancy could be prevented by the use of i) hard drugs, ii) laxatives, iii) white chlorine, and iv) boiled alcoholic beverages. Condoms were described by some adolescent boys as reusable. Condoms were also perceived by some adolescents to reduce sexual pleasure, and this opinion was mostly held by boys. Coitus interruptus (withdrawal method) was therefore considered more preferable than condoms for prevention of pregnancy. Conclusion: Although majority adolescents have knowledge about contraception and condom use, some misconceptions still persist. These misconceptions put many adolescents at increased risk for pregnancy and STIs which are detrimental to their health and wellbeing. Concerted efforts should be made through educational and behavior change interventions in schools and within communities to debunk persisting misconceptions about contraception, and properly educate adolescents on safe sex practices. Keywords: Misconceptions, Contraceptives, Condom, Adolescent, Sexual behaviors


2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Chinyere Ojiugo Mbachu ◽  
Ifunanya Clara Agu ◽  
Chinonso Obayi ◽  
Irene Eze ◽  
Nkoli Ezumah ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Misconceptions about the usefulness of condoms and other contraceptives still expose many unmarried adolescents to the risk of unwanted teenage pregnancies and sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). This study explored beliefs and misconceptions about condoms and other contraceptives among adolescents in Ebonyi state, south-east Nigeria. Method A qualitative study was undertaken in six local government areas in Ebonyi state, southeast Nigeria. Data were collected within a period of one month from in and out-of-school adolescents aged 13–18 years using twelve focus group discussions (FGD). The data were analyzed using the thematic framework approach. Result Majority of the adolescents were knowledgeable about methods of contraception, how they are used and their modes of action. They were also knowledgeable about the dual effects of condoms in prevention of pregnancy and STIs. However, some misconceptions that were expressed by some adolescents were that pregnancy could be prevented by the use of (i) hard drugs, (ii) laxatives, (iii) white chlorine, and (iv) boiled alcoholic beverages. Condoms were described by some adolescent boys as reusable. Condoms were also perceived by some adolescents to reduce sexual pleasure, and this opinion was mostly held by boys. Coitus interruptus (withdrawal method) was therefore considered more preferable than condoms for prevention of pregnancy. Conclusion Although majority adolescents have knowledge about contraception and condom use, some misconceptions still persist. These misconceptions put many adolescents at increased risk for pregnancy and STIs which are detrimental to their health and wellbeing. Concerted efforts should be made through educational and behaviour change interventions in schools and within communities to debunk persisting misconceptions about contraception including the use of condom, and properly educate adolescents on safe sex practices. Plain English summary Adolescents engage in unprotected sexual intercourse and other risky sexual behaviours because of some mistaken beliefs and wrong impressions about how to prevent unwanted pregnancy. These risky sexual behaviours predispose adolescents to sexually transmitted infections, unsafe abortion and other reproductive health problems. In this qualitative study, we explored some of these mistaken beliefs about condoms and other methods of preventing pregnancy. During focus group discussions, adolescents identified modern contraceptive methods, and described their modes of action and how they are used. They also discussed their contraceptive preferences and perceived effects of condoms on sexual pleasure. Although some of these adolescents were able to correctly mention various types of contraceptives and their modes of action, there were numerous wrong impressions. Hard drugs, laxatives, white chlorine and boiled alcoholic beverage were listed as emergency contraceptive methods. Emergency pills were perceived to work by flushing away spermatozoa from a girl’s system after sexual intercourse. Male condoms were perceived to be potentially dangerous because they could break and enter into the body of the female sexual partner. Some adolescent boys had the notion that particular brands of male condoms could be washed and reused. Notions about condom use and sexual pleasure varied for girls and boys. Some adolescent girls perceived that condom use during sex increases sexual pleasure because of the assurance of being protected from STIs and pregnancy. Adolescent boys were of the opinion that condoms interfere with the pleasure of direct ‘flesh to flesh’ contact during sex. There was a general belief that contraceptive use in early age reduces fertility prospects for boys and girls. Mistaken beliefs about methods of preventing pregnancy persist among adolescents, and this raises concerns about the quality of information they receive. Concerted efforts should be made to debunk these wrong beliefs and properly educate adolescents on safe sex practices.


2017 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 218-228 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jessamyn Bowling ◽  
Brian Dodge ◽  
Nyamat Bindra ◽  
Bhaktiben Dave ◽  
Ritika Sharma ◽  
...  

This qualitative study examined the acceptability of female condoms in urban India, with a focus on sexual pleasure. We conducted focus group discussions with 50 women and 19 men, as well as a small number of individual interviews with women ( n = 3), in Chennai and New Delhi. Perceived benefits of female condoms included protection against unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, increased sense of empowerment for women, and simple clean up. The most common drawback was reduced sensation. Participants suggested structural changes to the female condom to ease insertion and use. Consent and privacy were discussed as increasing sexual pleasure. Pleasure should be acknowledged in design and education efforts to increase female condom use.


1991 ◽  
Vol 2 (suppl a) ◽  
pp. 18-22
Author(s):  
Noni E MacDonald

High risk sexually transmitted disease (STD)/human immunodeficiency virus (HfV) transmission behaviour appears to be the norm, not the exception, for most adolescents. The perception of STD/HIV risk and actual risk do not always match. The major motivating factor for condom use evident in adolescents was fear of pregnancy, not fear of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome or STDs. Other factors influencing decreased condom use included: embarrassment about buying condoms: difficulty discussing condoms with a prospective partner; use of oral contraceptives; belief that condoms interfere with sexual pleasure; low HIV knowledge; and, for women, a large number of sexual partners. Overall. females reported having had more STDs than males. Prostitutes, both male and female, reported the highest rates (45% and 68%, respectively). Of the street youths studied, 16% reported having at least one prior STD diagnosis, compared to 9% of school dropouts and 5% of first year college students. The number of sexual partners and participation in anal intercourse strongly inlluenced the reported STD rate for street youths. STD/HIV risk reduction educational programs must be targeted and adapted to the cultural and social needs and resources of the different adolescent groups, particularly street youth, who are clearly a 'core' group for adolescent STD.


2017 ◽  
Vol 29 (4) ◽  
pp. 367-374 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephanie A Sanders ◽  
Richard A Crosby ◽  
Robin R Milhausen ◽  
Cynthia A Graham ◽  
Amir Tirmizi ◽  
...  

The objective of this study was to investigate women’s willingness to experiment with new condoms and lubricants, in order to inform condom promotion in a city with high rates of poverty and HIV. One hundred and seventy-three women (85.9% Black) sexually transmitted infection clinic attendees in Jackson, Mississippi, United States completed a questionnaire assessing willingness to experiment with condoms and lubricants and sexual pleasure and lubrication in relation to last condom use. Most women were willing to: (1) experiment with new types of condoms and lubricants to increase their sexual pleasure, (2) touch/handle these products in the absence of a partner, and (3) suggest experimenting with new condoms and lubricants to a sex partner. Previous positive sexual experiences with lubricant during condom use predicted willingness. The role women may play in male condom use should not be underestimated. Clinicians may benefit women by encouraging them to try new types of condoms and lubricants to find products consistent with sexual pleasure.


2016 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Samuel Nambile Cumber ◽  
Joyce M. Tsoka-Gwegweni

Introduction: Street children in Cameroon are adolescents, vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV and/or AIDS. The level of knowledge and practice of condom use among this population is unknown.Objective of the study: To assess the knowledge, practice and barriers to condom use in Cameroon.Materials and methods: The study was an analytical cross-sectional survey conducted in 2015. Questionnaires were administered to street children in a quiet location. Recruitment was made using the snowball technique with the help of peers.Results: More than 90% of participants knew of condoms, but only about 6% reported to have used a condom during their last sexual encounter. Most of the participants did not know that condoms could prevent HIV; only a few (15.5%) knew about this.Conclusion: Street adolescents in Cameroon seem to know about condoms, but have insufficient information on the importance of their regular use. The main barriers for the low practice of condom use reported by this population were the following: condoms hinder sexual pleasure; are costly; and it is embarrassing to buy, use or propose to use a condom.


Author(s):  
Chia-Wen Tsai ◽  
Pei-Di Shen ◽  
Yen-Ting Lin

India is the third most HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) /AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) -infected country in the world. The behavior of adolescents puts them at an increased risk for HIV and other STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). Additionally, their knowledge about HIV/AIDS is often inadequate. A quasi experiment was designed to be conducted at four high schools with a random sampling of 451 students. Two high schools used computers and other multimedia methods to promote AIDS education while two other schools used traditional lectures. Each school had two class-hours of AIDS education. Findings determined a gap in knowledge, attitude and behavior about HIV/AIDS issues within these different groups. The implications for current teaching approaches are discussed in this study.


2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Caitlin E. Kennedy ◽  
Laura J. Bernard ◽  
Kathryn E. Muessig ◽  
Kelika A. Konda ◽  
Elie A. Akl ◽  
...  

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association between serosorting and HIV infection, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and quality of life among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts and abstracted data. Meta-analyses were conducted using random effects models. Of 310 citations reviewed, 4 observational studies, all with MSM, met inclusion criteria. Compared to consistent condom use, serosorting was associated with increased risk of HIV (3 studies, odds ratio (OR): 1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.21–2.70) and bacterial STIs (1 study, OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.44–1.83). Compared to no condom use, serosorting was associated with reduced risk of HIV (3 studies, OR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.25–0.83) and bacterial STIs (1 study, OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.73–0.91). Among HIV-negative MSM, condom use appears to be more protective against HIV and STIs than serosorting and should be encouraged. However, serosorting may be better than no condom use as a harm reduction strategy.


2020 ◽  
Vol 31 (12) ◽  
pp. 1149-1153
Author(s):  
JaNelle Ricks ◽  
Richard A Crosby ◽  
Cynthia A Graham ◽  
Stephanie A Sanders ◽  
Robin R Milhausen ◽  
...  

The consistently high rate of sexually transmitted infections among people 18–24 years old warrants novel strategies promoting condom use among large segments of this population. Ample opportunity exits to employ such strategies in university settings. This study evaluated a sex-positive, home-practice intervention designed to promote condom use among university undergraduates engaging in penile–vaginal intercourse (PVI). A sample of 29 opposite-sex undergraduate couples, engaging in PVI, was recruited from a large university. After teaching couples about condom use, a health educator helped couples select condoms/lubricants from options comprising various sizes, fits, shapes, textures, and other features. A 30-day ‘homework assignment’ was made to use these products while reducing condom use errors/problems and enhancing sexual pleasure. A repeated measures design, with a six-month observation period, was used to evaluate the program. Over the six-month period, the mean frequency of condomless PVI decreased from 26.4 to 3.9 times ( P < .001). Significant and favorable changes were also found relative to attitudes toward condom use ( P =  .027) and in condom use self-efficacy ( P < .001). Most students completing the follow-up assessment indicated the intervention would favorably impact their future condom use. Findings suggest this intervention program may be important to promoting condom use among university couples engaging in PVI.


2009 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 250-257 ◽  
Author(s):  
Merav Ben Natan ◽  
Sergei Danilov ◽  
Yuli Evdokimovitz

Only a small percentage of young people aged 18 to 20 years use condoms regularly. Thus, the younger population has an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. This study examines the underlying determinants of condom use among soldiers based on the theory of planned behavior as well as the influence of soldiers’ social circumstances and prior sexual experience. A correlational design using an exploratory survey method was used. Participants were sampled in a convenience sample of 113 male soldiers from the Israel defense forces. A total of 70.1% of soldiers use condoms in their first sexual experience, however, this percentage subsequently decreases. The study indicates that soldiers are not familiar with the risks of frequent oral and anal sex. Behavioral intentions and self-control are significant predictors of condom use. Condom use among soldiers from one-parent families was lower than among soldiers from two-parent families. The theory of planned behavior seems to be a helpful method of predicting condom use among soldiers. Accordingly, efforts should be channeled at attempts to generate changes in soldiers’ views of condom use, intensifying normative pressures operated by their social milieu, and increasing their self-control in the use of condoms.


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