Preliminary examination of oral contraceptive use among university-aged females.

The etymology and use of oral contraceptives (OCs) has greatly influenced the sexual practices and social lives (e.g., decisions concerning childbearing, careers) of adolescent and adult women. In addition, OCs have the potential to benefit or harm its users depending upon the utilization practices and characteristics/lifestyle habits of the women consuming them. A 28-item questionnaire was distributed to female students at a university in Central Ontario and examined: (1) socio-demographic information; (2) background information concerning oral contraceptive use (e.g., length of time taking the pill, concerns about pill use, side effects while on the pill); and (3) procedure for taking the pill (e.g. maximizing effectiveness and safety). Preliminary analysis indicated that females may not be equipped with adequate knowledge or receiving the necessary support to practice the most efficacious behaviours surrounding pill use.