Conocimientos sobre métodos de planificación familiar en adolescentes que acuden al área de Ginecología en un Hospital de Guayaquil, 2024 - 2025.

Abstract

Knowledge about family planning methods in adolescents is important for promoting informed decisions about their sexual health; it also allows for guiding actions tailored to their specific needs. Objective: To describe knowledge about family planning methods in adolescents attending the gynecology department of a hospital in Guayaquil. Methodological Design: Quantitative, descriptive, prospective, and cross-sectional. Population: 100 adolescents treated in the gynecology department. Technique: Survey. Instrument: "Knowledge and practices regarding family planning methods in adolescents." Results: The adolescents were 12 to 15 years old (90%), female (66%), single (94%), from urban areas (84%), from single-parent families (38%), and had completed high school (38%). They were aware that family planning involves controlling the number of children (40%); they considered it important for preventing unwanted pregnancies (48%); and they indicated that condoms are effective but do not eliminate the risk of STIs (52%). They receive information in educational institutions (37%); they are informed about contraceptive methods (46%); the information is clear and complete (57%). In terms of practice, many use condoms (51%) and are not embarrassed to talk about it with their partner (60%). They state that it has no influence on their decision to use contraception (35%). Conclusion: Condoms are the most widely used method, possibly due to their easy access and a general understanding of their benefits. However, this familiarity does not always translate into consistent use or full awareness of all available options.