A.O. ALENKHE

This study examined female students’ perception on the use of contraceptives among residents in Ekosodin Community, Benin City. The research was guided by four objectives and employed a descriptive survey design. The study population consisted of 150 students residing within the community. Data were collected using a semi structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages. Findings revealed that while a majority of the respondents were aware of various contraceptive methods, their actual usage was relatively low due to factors such as fear of side effects, cultural and religious beliefs, and inadequate access to reproductive health information. Many respondents associated contraceptive use with promiscuity, indicating that misconceptions and social stigma still influence attitudes toward family planning among young women. The study also found that students who had received proper sexual education demonstrated more positive perceptions and were more likely to use contraceptives responsibly. The study concludes that despite high awareness levels, there remains a significant gap between knowledge and practice of contraceptive use among female students. It recommends intensified reproductive health education, increased access to youth-friendly health services, and community sensitization programs aimed at dispelling myths and promoting safe, informed contraceptive choices among young women.