“It’s safe, right?” What community college students know, do not know and think they know about birth control

Abstract

Objectives: Community college students comprise almost half of all undergraduates; they are of diverse backgrounds, and many are immigrants or first-generation students. Strengthening opportunities for these students is a current national policy priority. We conducted qualitative research to guide a contraceptive educational intervention among this population at high risk of unintended pregnancy. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews among 61 community college students (35 female, 27 male) aged 18–25 to explore the roles of contraception and unintended pregnancy in their lives. We used a semistructured topic guide. Data were coded with content analysis, and themes were identified. Results: Most students were sexually active and had had unprotected intercourse. They worried that unintended pregnancy might obstruct educational goals and were familiar with condoms. However, confusion about contraception abounded and was shared by friends and partners. Several students thought the implant and IUD caused “mini abortions,” which explained the spotting, menstrual changes and why it “messed up fertility” later. About half also confused Plan B and those menstrual changes with abortion. Students perceived the pill as being 100% effective, and women in general had more positive views of this method, while men focused on hormones and side effects, and thought a condom was better because it was a visible form of protection. Conclusions: An educational intervention for this population to increase contraceptive knowledge should include peer voices and address not only medical features of contraceptives but also common worries and fears that prevent use among this age group.