Abstract
AIM: This study aims to explore university students' perceptions, attitudes, and knowledge regarding contraceptive methods within the sociocultural context of Türkiye. It specifically investigates how cultural norms, religious values, and social stigma influence young people's access to, and understanding of, contraception. METHODS: A qualitative design was employed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis as developed by Braun and Clarke. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 38 university students aged 18-25 from diverse academic backgrounds using purposive sampling. The interdisciplinary research team, comprising sociologists and health professionals, engaged in iterative coding, reflexive memoing, and theme development, emphasizing contextual interpretation and reflexivity. RESULTS: Four main and nine subthemes emerged: (1) individual attitudes, showing ambivalence between personal autonomy and moral taboos; (2) sociocultural barriers, where religious and cultural norms stigmatize contraceptive use, especially among unmarried individuals; (3) knowledge gaps, with participants demonstrating limited or inaccurate understanding of methods beyond condoms and emergency contraception; and (4) educational needs, highlighting strong support for early, comprehensive sex education and accessible counseling services. A notable contradiction was observed between participants' relatively liberal views and the conservative societal climate in which they navigated. CONCLUSIONS: This study underscores the persistence of stigma and misinformation surrounding contraception among Turkish youth, despite signs of generational value shifts. These findings emphasize the urgent need for culturally sensitive, inclusive, and scientifically grounded sexual health education. The results are relevant for public health policymakers and practitioners in Türkiye and other conservative societies, where young people's reproductive autonomy is constrained by moral and cultural norms.