A repeated survey of sexual behavior among female university students in Sweden.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate sexual behavior and use of contraceptives among female university students in 2009, and compare the results with surveys from 1999 and 2004.

DESIGN

Comparative, repeated cross-sectional surveys.

SETTING

A Student Health Center in Sweden.

POPULATION

Female university students (n=350).

METHODS

Multiple-choice waiting-room questionnaire.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Number of sexual partners, sexually transmitted diseases, contraceptive methods.

RESULTS

Mean age was 23.5 years and 57% (n=198) had a stable relationship. Almost all of the women, 99% (n=345), had had intercourse; 97% (n=328) had received and 94% (n=328) had given oral sex. The mean number of sexual partners had increased to 11.0, compared with 7.4 in 2004 and 5.4 in 1999. Sixty-five percent had had 'first-date' intercourse without using a condom, compared to 45% in 2004 and 37% in 1999. More than one-third (39%) had experience of anal intercourse compared with 32% in 2004 and 27% in 1999. Experience of sexually transmitted infections had increased (29% in 2009, 21% in 2004, and 14% in 1999). Condoms were often used at very first intercourse (76%) and oral contraceptives were used at latest intercourse (54%). The use of emergency contraceptive pills had increased to 67%, compared with 52% in 2004 and 22% in 1999.

CONCLUSIONS

The sexual lifestyle of female university students has become riskier and this might have serious consequences for their sexual and reproductive health in the future.