Current knowledge among medical and non-medical students on the risk of thromboembolic complications of oral hormonal contraception

Introduction:
Oral hormonal contraception is one of the most effective methods of preventing unplanned pregnancy; however, it is also associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic disease. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge of male and female university students on oral hormonal contraception and possible complications.

Material and methods:
In the month of May 2024, an online survey was conducted among students of medical and non-medical faculties at Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Poland.

Results:
The study included a total of 558 students, 457 women (81.9%) and 101 men (18.1%). In the surveyed group of female students, 177 (38.7%) used oral hormonal contraception, 111 (24.5%) answered that they currently did not but had used it in the past. The main reasons for discontinuing oral contraception were complications and contraindications to its use. Among the respondents, 316 (69.1%) women were under the constant care of a doctor, undergoing check-ups once a year or more often, while 56 (12.3%) students never used such visits. A total of 384 (84.2%) women and 82 (81.2%) men said they had knowledge of venous thromboembolism (VTE) as a complication of oral hormonal contraception use.

Conclusions:
Medical students are more aware of the risk of thromboembolic complications associated with the use of oral contraceptives. Women using oral contraceptives (OCPs) have more knowledge about side effects and thromboembolic complications. In addition, women who use OCPs are more likely to report for gynaecological examinations.