OBJECTIVE:

To explore knowledge and attitudes of a group of adolescents regarding sexuality and contraception.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This is a cross-sectional, exploratory, non-probabilistic study with non-experimental design, through the application of a descriptive survey validated by judges and analyzed by frequency distribution. Only adolescent volunteers of 12-17 years of age were included.

RESULTS:

700 adolescents participated, highlighting: 26% (n = 182) who affirm having had sexual relations, that almost 50% (n = 350) consider that “washing the vagina” after a sexual relationship is a good method, prejudices and attitudes nuanced by the basic ignorance in this matter. Myths about masturbation and homosexuality become evident, as well as the lack of knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

CONCLUSIONS:

pregnancy in adolescence is a consequence of the historical aban-donment of this population, and the hope that the "National strategy for the prevention of pregnancy in adolescence" (ENAPEA) someday of results, will depend not on large investments, but on bet on the education of sexuality and assume a total commitment to this population including medical organizations.