Health · Medical Research · 4 hrs ago
Survey finds Brazilian women turn to online sources for contraception advice
A survey supported by Brazil’s Febrasgo gynecology and obstetrics federation asked 500 women across Brazil how they choose contraception.
Conducted in April 2026, it found 58% look online before speaking with a health professional, though 70% trust professionals more than other sources.
The pill was widely seen as effective, but only 18% said they trusted the pill, and many worried about hormonal effects.
Six in ten respondents believed at least one false claim about contraception, including claims about weight gain, infertility or cancer.
Clear explanations helped: 77% felt more at ease after receiving them, while 45% wanted more time to discuss risks and benefits and 53% said a lack of empathy reduced their trust.
Febrasgo says contraception choices should be tailored to each woman’s health, needs and plans, with room to discuss the options.
A survey found that 58% of Brazilian women seek contraception information online before speaking with a health professional.
The survey covered 500 women aged 16 to 45 across Brazil and was conducted in April 2026.
Although 92% considered the contraceptive pill effective, only 18% said they trusted it.
Six in 10 respondents believed at least one false claim about contraception.
The findings also point to the importance of clear, individualized guidance from health professionals.
- Who
- The survey covered 500 Brazilian women aged 16 to 45.
- What
- It examined where women seek contraception information, what shapes their choices and what questions they bring to consultations.
- When
- The survey was conducted in April 2026. It was reported on October 18, 2026.
- Where
- Brazil.
- Why
- To investigate how Brazilian women seek information and make decisions about contraceptive methods.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Libbs conducted the survey with support from Febrasgo among 500 women aged 16 to 45.
CNN Brasil published the survey findings.
- Survey sample
- 500 women aged 16 to 45
- Online information
- 58% seek information online before speaking with a health professional
- Confidence in professionals
- 70% trust health professionals more than other information sources
- Pill efficacy and trust
- 92% consider the pill effective; 18% say they trust it
- Misinformation
- Six in 10 respondents believe at least one false claim about contraception