Evaluative Indices Assigned to Contraceptive Methods by University Undergraduates

Abstract

Background: Preordinate attitudes and beliefs about contraception may influence acceptance or rejection of a particular method. Purpose: We examined the attitudes about contraception methods held by undergraduate students (N=792) at two large southeastern universities in the United States. Methods: Twelve methods were rated on 40 semantic differential scales. Means of the scale sum scores for men and women were compared using t-tests. Results: Among women the most favorably rated methods were: abstinence, oral contraceptive, male condom, Nuva ring, contraceptive patch, emergency contraception, male sterilization, female sterilization, diaphragm and female condom, each yielding a mean above the scale midpoint. The most negatively rated methods were withdrawal and douche. For men, the ratings in descending order were: oral contraceptive, male condom, abstinence, contraceptive patch, emergency contraception, female sterilization, Nuva ring, female condom, diaphragm, withdrawal, male sterilization and douche. There were four statistically significant (P < 0.05) gender differences, with abstinence, male condom, male sterilization and Nuva ring all rated more favorably by women. Discussion: These evaluative indices suggest that contraceptive methods elicit varied responses among potential users that theoretically could manifest themselves in acceptance or rejection of a particular method. Improved understanding of the traits by which potential users judge contraception may be beneficial in fostering communication between potential users and practitioners who provide relevant advice. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health educators and other practitioners engaged in contraception counseling must consider that persons may already hold strong feelings about some methods before they enter the clinical setting.