Submission ID 118384
| Issue/Objective | Contraception plays a crucial role in women's health, quality of life, and their active participation in society. However, a lack of contraceptive knowledge can hinder access to services and the use of contraceptives. In 2019, women of reproductive age represented 51.4% of the total female population in Algeria, with the majority aged 15-29. To capture participants from this age group, we explored contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, and practices among female university students in Algeria. |
|---|---|
| Methodology/Approach | From January to April 2024, we conducted an online survey with female university students, aged 15-49, in Algeria. The survey included both closed- and open-ended questions in Arabic, French, and English. We adopted a purposive sampling and employed a multi-modal recruitment strategy to recruit participants. We analyzed quantitative data for descriptive statistics and the qualitative data for content and themes using a deductive approach. |
| Results | Our 219 responses indicate that while this population has some knowledge of contraception, a significant portion either lacked information or expressed no interest in the topic. Gaps in knowledge persist, with misinformation and negative attitudes remaining widespread. Social circles and social media were the primary sources of contraceptive information, and the pill was the most known method. Many participants expressed priority of proving fertility before using contraception after marriage, and there was notable uncertainty about the timing and importance of contraceptive use. Participants recommended the need to improve access through education, awareness campaigns, the equitable provision of diverse contraceptive options, especially those with 'no side effects,' and addressing the ongoing contraceptive shortages, with a particular emphasis on ensuring availability in rural and remote areas. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Providing accurate information, addressing misconceptions, and empowering youth and women, to make informed choices through evidence-based programs should be prioritized. Additionally, ensuring the availability of diverse contraceptive options and expanding awareness programs to reach various population groups, including those in rural and remote areas, is crucial, while considering religion, gender dynamics, marital status, and economic conditions. Therefore, intersectoral collaboration, including the active involvement of youth, religious affairs, and higher education sectors is warranted to enhance these efforts and promote equitable access to contraceptive services in Algeria. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Sabrine Chengane University of Ottawa / GRAS-University of Oran2 Angel M. Foster Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa |
