Levels and predictors of knowledge, attitude and practice of contraception among female TV undergraduates in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionAccess to contraception is a preventive measure against unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections; especially in sub-Saharan Africa where unmet need is a huge public health concern. This study assessed the levels and predictors of knowledge, attitude and practice of contraception among female TV studies students in Nigeria. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study was conducted among female students of NTA TV College, Nigeria. Predictors of good knowledge, attitude and practice of contraception were determined by multivariable binary logistic regression. A p-value of < 0.05 was determined to be statistically. ResultThere were 217 study participants; with an average age of 22 years. Levels of good knowledge, attitude and practice of contraception were 55.3%, 47.5%, and 50.7% respectively. About 74% has ever had sex; with their main sources of contraceptive information from friends and the internet; and commonly used contraceptives are condom and oral contraceptive pills. The commonest reason for the non-use of contraceptives is fear of side effects or health risks. Being a young adult is a significant predictor (aOR: 2.633 [95% CI: 1.031-6.723); p=0.043) of good knowledge; while being a diploma student (aOR: 2.369 [95%CI: 1.219-4.604]; p=0.011); living off-campus (aOR: 2.134 [95%CI: 1.043-4.368]; p=0.038) and good knowledge (aOR: 3.798 [95%CI: 2.079-6.937]; p=0.000) are significant predictors of good attitude. Being from the states indigenous population (aOR: 2.369 [95%CI: 1.222-4.595]; p=0.011) and ever engaging in sex (aOR: 24.482 [95%CI: 7.914-75.736]; p=0.000) are significant predictors of good contraceptive use. ConclusionOur study has shown relatively low levels of good knowledge, attitude and practice of contraception and their predictors. Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve advocacy and policies to improve knowledge, attitude and practice on contraception and sexual and reproductive health services among young people.