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Awareness, use and choice of emergency contraceptive among women in Ile-Ife, Nigeria


S.A. Olowookere
M.Y. Ijadunola
A.E. Olowokere
M.D. Olodu
O.A. Opaleye
O.M. Shabi
C.A. Adegbenro

Abstract

Background: Immediate access to emergency contraceptives (EC) averts unintended pregnancy following unprotected sex or sexual assault due to ineffective prior contraceptive coverage. This study assessed the awareness, use and choice of EC among females of reproductive age (15-49) resident in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

Methods: The study was a community-based cross-sectional study. 400 consenting respondents completed a questionnaire on factors affecting awareness and use of EC. Data analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Mean age (SD) of the respondents was 25.5±5.5 years ranging from 18 to 48 years. Majority of the respondents were single (72.2%) and had secondary education (68.5%). Twenty-one percent had previous unintended pregnancy with 14% having had induced abortion. Majority (51%) were aware of EC with friends (72.1%) and primary care workers (38.7%) as their commonest sources of information. Most (69%) were sexually active with the commonest previous EC use as Postinor (85.8%) and IUCD (14.2%). Major reason for EC use was pregnancy prevention (85.8%) while for non-use was fear of side effects (45.5%). Young age (OR=4.26, CI: 1.46-12.50, p=0.008), higher education (OR=3.77, CI=1.04-13.70, p=0.043) and awareness of EC (OR=10.86, CI: 5.54-21.28, p=0.001) were significant determinants of EC use.

Conclusions: Many sexually active women were not aware of EC. Contraceptive education will improve EC awareness.

Keywords: Emergency contraceptives, women, primary health workers, friends


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