Associations Between Recent Contraceptive Use and First Sex Behaviors of Scottish Adolescents: A Brief Report

Abstract

Objectives We examined associations between recent contraceptive use and first-sex behaviors (early initiation, substance use, contraceptive use) among adolescents in Scotland. Methods We used data from the Health Behavior in School-aged Children study. Results Controlling for early initiation and substance use, girls and boys who used contraceptives at first sex were 7.5 and 12.3 times more likely to use contraceptives at most recent sexual intercourse than adolescents who did not ( p < .001). We also present preliminary evidence on contraceptive use of Scottish adolescents in 2022. Conclusions Experiences during adolescents’ first sex may have lasting implications for later sexual behavior.