[Contraception in the first coitus].

The authors examined a representative sample of young people ages 16-20 Denmark between April 1984-February 1985 concerning their contraceptive behavior. A total of 286 young women (75.3% replying) and 336 young men (79.6% replying) participated. The average age for 1st coitus was 16.8 years of age for both sexes; a total of 208 (73%) young women and 230 (69%) young men had had coitus. Approximately 80% used contraceptive protection with the percentage being even higher (89% for the females and 83% for the males) when it was their 1st coitus. Condoms and oral contraceptives were the most commonly used methods of contraception. Between 1/5-1/3 of those sexually active under the age of 15 did not use contraception at their 1st coitus. It appears desirable to provide more counseling for young people prior to their 1st coitus. (authors modified) (summary in ENG)