70 percent of women use contraceptives during their first sexual encounter

"There are many factors that influence the correlation between the region and women at an intermediate level" continues the researcher. "These factors which influence the context must be taken into account to ensure all women throughout Spain have equal access to contraceptives regardless of their socio-economic level or the area where they live."

There are still inequalities

According to experts, contraceptives are the most effective way of preventing unplanned pregnancy and their use is widespread in Spain. Nonetheless, there are still some inequalities in their use.

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering the social, economic and political characteristics of regions when designing administrative measures and promotion methods for contraceptive use.

"This is important in light of the new 2010 law in Spain on Sexual and Reproductive Health, which aims to ensure equal access to contraceptive methods for all women", concludes Ruiz Muñoz.

Contraceptive use in Spain during the first sexual encounter is similar to other European countries. However, there are some geographical differences between Spanish regions: women in Murcia use contraceptives less (55.8 percent) whereas women in the Basque Country use them more (76.7 percent).

(Photo Credit: SINC)

Contraceptive use in Spain during the first sexual encounter is similar to other European countries. However, there are some geographical differences between Spanish regions: women in Murcia use contraceptives less (55.8 percent) whereas women in the Basque Country use them more (76.7 percent).

(Photo Credit: SINC)

Source: FECYT - Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology