Contraceptive Knowledge Among University Students in the United Kingdom: Understanding Awareness, Information Pathways and Knowledge Gaps
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64917/ejemph/Volume03Issue06-03Keywords:
Contraception, contraceptive knowledge, university students, sexual-health education, reproductive health, United KingdomAbstract
University students remain an important population within sexual and reproductive health research because they occupy a transitional life stage characterised by increased independence, changing sexual relationships, and evolving reproductive decision-making. Despite sustained public health investment in sexual-health promotion and contraceptive access across the United Kingdom, evidence continues to suggest that important gaps persist in students’ understanding of contraception, particularly in relation to method effectiveness, access pathways, and informed decision-making. This paper examines contraceptive knowledge among students attending a university in North-East England, using evidence from broader research conducted at the University of Sunderland. The study is positioned within continuing concerns regarding unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and inconsistent contraceptive behaviours among young adults. Particular attention is given to students’ awareness of contraceptive methods, their principal sources of information, and the social and educational factors that shape their understanding of contraception.
The paper argues that knowledge of contraception cannot be reduced to simple awareness of contraceptive names or products. Instead, contraceptive knowledge involves confidence in method selection, understanding of effectiveness, awareness of risks and side-effects, and the ability to navigate healthcare systems and sexual-health services. Existing research shows that young adults frequently rely on peers, social media, and informal online sources for sexual-health information, even when healthcare professionals remain the most trusted source of advice. This creates an important public health challenge because inaccurate or fragmented information may contribute to contraceptive inconsistency and risky sexual practices.
This paper contributes to current research on sexual health education among university students in the United Kingdom by focusing on contraceptive knowledge within this population. The discussion highlights the continuing need for evidence-based sexual-health education, accessible reproductive-health services, and university-led interventions capable of improving informed contraceptive decision-making among young adults.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ekenedilichukwu Anselem Odiegwu, Kennedy Oberhiri Obohwemu, Estherdon Uzochukwu Odiegwu, Onyedika Emmanuel Odiegwu, Chidimma Maryann Odiegwu, Theresa Chiemelie Odiegwu, Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo, Gordon Mabengban Yakpir, Chika Oguguo, Kenneth Oshiokhayamhe Iyevhobu, Eddy Eidenehi Esezobor, Oludolapo Dada, Nneka Angela Oseji, Tolulope Bayode Abejide, Kesiena Uchemefuna, Simeon Ehiabhi Ifada, Abdulmumuni Musa (Author)
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