Knowledge, attitude, and practice of emergency contraceptives among reproductive-aged women

• Author Details:   
• Aruna Mallangouda Biradar
• Basavaraj V V
• Siddaruda M Biradar ^*

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Background: When used responsibly, emergency contraception is a safe and affordable method of preventing unwanted pregnancies. Emergency contraception refers to contraceptive methods for prevention of pregnancy following unprotected sexual intercourse. It can also play an important role in reducing maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. This is particularly important in our nation because unsafe abortions and population control are major concerns. The general public needs to be appropriately informed about contraception and have a good attitude towards it in order for it to be effective. Hence the present study was undertaken with the aim and objectives to assess the knowledge and practice of emergency contraceptives among reproductive age groups of women.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted among 103 women aged between 18-45 years at gynecology and OBG department of Shri B M Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Vijayapura. The sociodemographic parameters were measured and they were asked about their contraceptive knowledge, attitude and practice of EC and results were assessed.

Results: Complete knowledge, attitude and practice of EC were very low and level of knowledge is very poor (58.3%), moderate level (35%) and Good is only 6.8%. There is a significant (p<0.05) relation between literate and illiterate and other sociodemographic characters were non-significant (p>0.05). The relationship between sociodemographic and attitude and level of knowledge and practice were also non-significant (p>0.05). The possible side effects of EC are not known by 88.3% participants and rest is known little bit (11.7%). Only two factors affecting (nuclear family and marital status) significantly (p<0.05) about knowledge of EC. The level of knowledge and practice of EC does not have relation (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Thus, in order to lower maternal and perinatal mortality or morbidity, it is imperative that women receive the necessary education to enable them to make informed decisions, have a positive outlook, and follow the best practices of EC.