Knowledge, Attitudes, and Contraceptives Practices among Undergraduate Students at a Public University in Gauteng Province, South Africa

Alidah Mmaphuti Kekana; Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng; Andries  Masenge

doi:10.25159/2520-5293/21379

Authors

Alidah Mmaphuti Kekana University of Pretoria https://orcid.org/0009-0009-0828-2499
Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng University of Pretoria https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9394-557X
Andries Masenge University of Pretoria https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8372-2356

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-5293/21379

Keywords:

contraceptives, knowledge, attitudes, practices, university students

Abstract

Background: Unintended pregnancy remains a major public health concern among young adults globally and in South Africa. Despite increased access to contraceptives and reproductive health education, inconsistent contraceptive use persists among university students. Evidence suggests that knowledge does not always translate into sustained contraceptive practice.

Objectives: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive practices among undergraduate students and examine associations with selected demographic characteristics.

Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among 400 undergraduate students aged ≥18 years. A stratified sampling framework by campus was applied; however, participants were ultimately recruited using convenience sampling at five campus health clinics. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire aligned with the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice (KAP) framework. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for analysis (p < 0.05).

Results: High contraceptive knowledge (98.2%) and generally positive attitudes were observed. However, contraceptive use remained suboptimal, with 62.1% reporting ever use and 44.0% current use. Fear of side effects, misconceptions, and socio-cultural influences were key barriers. Significant associations were found between contraceptive use and gender and relationship status (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: A clear knowledge-practice gap exists. Interventions should address misconceptions, socio-cultural influences, and behavioural factors beyond knowledge provision.

Author Biographies

Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng, University of Pretoria

Professor at the University of Pretoria.

Andries Masenge , University of Pretoria

Statistician at the University of Pretoria

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