Objective: To assess the knowledge and practices of medical students regarding the menstrual cycle and
contraception.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine and
Odontostomatology (FMOS) from March 30 to May 30, 2019. A total of 207 female students were
randomly selected. Data were collected using a structured, anonymous, self-administered questionnaire.
Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0, Excel 2016, and Word 2016. The chi-square
test was used for comparisons, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results: Approximately 48.4% of students correctly identified their fertile period. Nearly all participants
had heard of family planning. It was primarily associated with prevention of unintended pregnancies
(60.6%), birth spacing (20%), family well-being (6%), and fertility regulation (3.3%).
A total of 75.4% had used at least one contraceptive method. The male condom was the most commonly
used method (79.9%), followed by oral contraceptives (57%), implants (45.3%), natural methods
(45.3%), and intrauterine devices (32.3%).
Emergency contraception was known by 91.7% of participants, but only 8.2% had used it.
Conclusion: Most medical students demonstrated basic knowledge of the menstrual cycle and a
relatively high level of awareness regarding contraceptive methods. However, the utilization rate
remains suboptimal despite favorable attitudes. The male condom remains the most widely used method,
mainly due to its dual protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
