Adesão ao preservativo masculino: realidade comportamental e conhecimento de universitários

Abstract

Men and women recognize condoms' role in preventing both Sexually Transmitted Infec-tions and pregnancy. However, various obstacles, such as concerns about reduced pleasure, impede their use. OBJECTIVE: To describe the knowledge and behaviors of university students regarding adherence to male condoms. METHODOLOGY: This was a descriptive, quantitative exploratory study involving 136 students from a public university. RESULTS: The average age was 20 years, with most identifying as heterosexual (76.5%). A significant portion (33.5%) did not use condoms. Furthermore, 85% used con-doms for pregnancy prevention, 92.5% for Sexually Transmitted Infections prevention, while 48.5% ceased sexual activity due to a lack of condoms. Additionally, 84% faced challenges with putting on condoms, and 54% possessed unused condoms. CONCLU-SION: These findings highlight the necessity to reevaluate sex education, providing indi-viduals with the tools to comprehend, modify their behavior, and enhance adherence to condom usage