Evaluation of the knowledge level on contraceptive methods among final-year medical students at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine

The aim of our study is to determine the level of knowledge of final-year medical students at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine regarding the contraceptive methods and to increase their awareness on this subject. This research is a descriptive and cross-sectional study. The study sample consisted of 230 final-year students at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine. Data were collected through a questionnaire composed of 18 items covering sociodemographic characteristics, natural contraceptive methods, and contraindications of combined oral contraceptives, along with the 25-item multiple-choice Contraceptive Knowledge Assessment Scale. The mean age of participants was 24.2 ± 1.3 years. Of the participants, 55.2% were female and 44.8% were male. Among them, 42.2% reported being sexually active. The most commonly used contraceptive method among sexually active individuals was condoms (78.4%), followed by oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) at 9.3% and the withdrawal method at 5.2%. The participants' average score on the Contraceptive Knowledge Assessment Scale was 14. The mean score of female participants was found to be significantly higher than that of male participants. Those who considered themselves to have sufficient knowledge had a significantly higher mean score compared to those who did not. Participants who had used an effective contraceptive method in the last three months had a significantly higher mean score than those who had not. Additionally, those who reported a fear of becoming pregnant had a significantly higher mean score compared to those without such a concern. In conclusion, final-year medical students having adequate knowledge and awareness of contraceptive methods is crucial for both making informed personal health decisions and providing effective counseling at the community level. Family Medicine rotations play a significant role in improving students' knowledge and preparing them for clinical practice. Equipping future primary care physicians with this knowledge and awareness will directly contribute to enhancing public consciousness about contraception. Keywords: Contraception, knowledge level, medical students, Family Medicine, awareness