Análise do conhecimento sobre anticoncepcionais por acadêmicas de fisioterapia

Abstract

Introduction: Contraceptives are drugs composed of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, acting both in the prevention of unwanted pregnancy and in the management of gynecological and dermatological conditions. Despite the benefits, it is essential to assess whether the female public is adequately informed about the risks of these drugs. Objective: To analyze the level of knowledge about contraceptives among physiotherapy students. Methods: A cross-sectional study with a mixed-methods approach was conducted with female physiotherapy undergraduate students from the 1° to the 10° semester at the State University of Piauí, aged 18 to 35 years. Data collection lasted 1 month, beginning in June 2025. Results: The sample consisted of 100 students with an average age of 22 years, and 33% use some contraceptive method. Ovulation inhibition is the most frequently reported mechanism of action (91.9%), however, 30% are unaware of contraindications and risk factors, do not understand that contraceptives may have reduced effectiveness when combined with antibiotic therapy (52%), and do not know that these methods do not protect against STIs (35%). A statistically significant association was found between education level and contraceptive use (p = 0.033), with a higher prevalence among participants from public schools (57.6%). Conclusion: A good level of knowledge about contraceptives was observed among the students, but gaps persist that can lead to misunderstandings in their use, highlighting the need to strengthen educational actions that promote the conscious use of contraceptives for the preservation and promotion of women's health.