Condom Use Among Female Students in Higher Education Institutions in Portugal

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are significant public health problems and impact young people and women more intensely, potentially leading to infertility, preterm births, and miscarriages. Condom use is the main method of prevention, but its adoption is related to historical, cultural, economic, and relational factors. To describe condom use among female students enrolled in higher education. Cross-sectional study, part of a research project conducted in 2022 with students from two higher education institutions in Coimbra, Portugal. Women aged 18 to 29 years who had already initiated sexual activity were included. Sampling was non-probabilistic, by convenience. Data collection was performed through an online structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed descriptively. The study was approved by a Research Ethics Committee. A total of 327 students participated; the majority were white (94.5%), single (97.2%), Catholic (69.3%), and enrolled in health-related programs (50.2%). Alcohol use was reported by 91.4% and illicit drug use by 12.2%. Most participants (75.8%) denied a history of STIs and reported up to two sexual partners in the past six months. Regarding condom use, 75.5% used a condom during their first sexual intercourse. In the last sexual encounter, condom use dropped to 43.2% with a steady partner and 50.8% with a casual partner. Over the past six months, consistent condom use was reported by 23.7% for vaginal sex, 21.8% for anal sex, and 15.6% for oral sex. The students investigated demonstrated vulnerability to STIs, evidenced by low adherence to condom use, including in casual encounters and in anal intercourse, which are recognized as higher-risk exposures. Factors such as trust in the partner, difficulties in negotiation, and low perception of risk contribute to this scenario. There is an urgent need to address these issues within health and educational settings to protect women’s sexual and reproductive health and promote safer, healthier, and more equitable relationships. Higher education institutions should assume an active role as promoters of student health.