Structural Equation Modeling on Contraception Behavior of Unmarried Men and Women in Korea: Gender Difference

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to test and validate a model to predict contraception behavior in unmarried men and women. METHODS: Data were collected from a questionnaire survey of 180 unmarried men and 186 unmarried women 20 years of age or over who had sexual relationships in the past 6 months. Participants were from Seoul, Kyunggi, Daegu, and Busan and data collection was done from February 19 to April 16, 2013. RESULTS: Model fit indices for the hypotheoretical model fitted to the recommended levels. Out of 15 paths, 11 were statistically significant in both. Predictors of contraception behavior in unmarried men and women were intention to use contraception and self-efficacy for contraception. Exposure to sexual content was directly significant to the intention in men only. Self-efficacy for contraception was affected by perceived threat of pregnancy and gender role attitude. In women, the two predictors were also significant except for the effect of exposure to sexual contents. CONCLUSION: Results indicate that an intervention program which increases self-efficacy in unmarried men and women contributes to effective contraception behavior. In addition, proper sexual education programs using positive aspect of mass media can help develop active participation for contraception behavior.

Contraception Behavior and Related Factors in Unmarried Female and Male / 여성건강간호학회지

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify differences in contraception behavior and related factors between unmarried female and male. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey design with a convenient sampling was used. From Seoul, 107 women and 96 men were recruited. A structured questionnaire was self-administered from July 14, 2008 to September 2, 2008. RESULTS: The average ages of women and men were 26.9 and 27.8 years old, respectively. Fifty-six percent of women and 85.4% of men have experienced sexual intercourse. There were no differences between female and male in attitude toward contraception, subjective norm, and contraception behavior, while female had higher score of self-efficacy for contraception (p=.02) and intention of contraception (p=.02). There was positive correlation with subjective norm (r=.22, p<.05), self-efficacy (r=.53, p<.01) in male and attitude (r=.32, p<.05), self-efficacy (r=49, p<.01) in female. According to the result of multiple regression, the significant factor of contraception behavior was self-efficacy for both female (beta=.49, p=.00) and male (beta=.53, p=.00). CONCLUSION: To improve contraception behavior for unmarried female and male, it is necessary to develop proper sex education program to enhance self-efficacy for contraception. Adjusted education program by this result will contribute to increase sexual health for female and male.

Details of Lymphedema, Upper Limb Morbidity, and Self Management in Women after Breast Cancer Treatment / 여성건강간호학회지

PURPOSE: To examine the details of lymphedema, upper limb morbidity, and its self management in women after breast cancer treatment. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional survey design, 81 women were recruited from a university hospital. Lymphedema was detected by a nurse as a 2-cm difference between arm circumferences at 6 different points on the arm. Degrees of pain, stiffness, and numbness were scored using a drawing of upper limb on a 0~10 point scale. Aggravating conditions and self-management for lymphedema were also recorded. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 52.5 years; the average time since breast surgery was 29.7 months. Histories of modified radical mastectomy (55%) and lymph node dissection (81%) were noted. Lymphedema was found in 59% of women, then pain and stiffness were prevalent most at upper arm while numbness was apparentat fingers, and the symptom distress scores ranged 3.9~6.7. Women experienced aggravated arm swelling after routine housework with greatly varied duration. Self-management was conservative with a wide range of times for the relief of symptoms. CONCLUSION: Lymphedema education for women with breast cancer should be incorporated into the oncologic nursing care system to prevent its occurrence and arm morbidity. Risk reduction guidelines, individually tailored self-care strategies, and self-awareness for early detection need to be refined in clinical nursing practices.