EVALUATION OF FACTORS INFLUENCING CONTRACEPTIVE DECISION-MAKING AMONG YOUNG WOMEN IN A GYNECOLOGY OUTPATIENT CLINIC: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Contraception and reproductive planning are fundamental to women's autonomy and the prevention of unintended pregnancies. In Brazil, more than half of all pregnancies are unplanned, reflecting inequalities in access to information and contraceptive methods. This study aims to analyze the determining factors for contraceptive decision-making among women aged 18 to 30 treated at a gynecology outpatient clinic. This is a cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative study, approved by the Research Ethics Committee (CoEP) under code 7.571.365 and with the Certificate of Ethical Appraisal Presentation (CAAE) under code 87255225.4.0000.0062. The sample consisted of 108 participants, with a high level of self-reported knowledge about contraception (mean 4.05/5; 95% CI: 3.88–4.21). The study also showed that 16.7% reported difficulties such as unavailability in the public health system (SUS), high cost, and delays in scheduling appointments. Qualitative interviews indicated a demand for less moralized and more accessible information, reinforcing the importance of ongoing reproductive education. The findings indicate that, despite high self-reported knowledge, gaps persist in access, counseling, and the influence of sociocultural factors, age group, and education level on contraceptive decision-making.