[Knowledge and use of contraceptive methods by university physicians and medical students]. / Conoscenza ed utilizzazione delle metodiche contraccettive da parte di medici universitari e studenti in medicina.

PIP: A survey by questionnaire was carried out at 3 Italian University Hospitals, one in northern, one in central, and one in southern Italy, to study contraceptive knowledge and practices among physicians and medical students. 76.6% of respondents used a contraceptive method, but only 40.5% used a modern method. The pill was used by 36.7% of modern contraceptives users, the IUD by 4.1%, and the diaphragm by 1.1%. The condom was still used by 23.6% of respondents, especially students, and the rhythm method by 13.7%, especially among physicians. Coitus interruptus seemed to be still very popular in the south. Motivation for choice of method used was not so much effectiveness of the method, as simplicity of use. Only 5% of respondents were using a method recommended by a specialist. In general, knowledge about specific contraceptive methods, especially the modern ones, was very poor, especially in the southern university. However, as compared to preceding surveys, practice of modern contraceptive methods is on the increase.^ieng