EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION: KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICES AMONG HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

Abstract

Background: After unprotected sexual relations, emergency contraception (EC) is recommended to prevent unplanned pregnancy and its adverse implications. Its proper application can help to avoid unwanted pregnancy or unsafe abortion, which can reduce maternal mortality. As a result, the current study sought to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of married females attending OPD of tertiary care hospital regarding EC. Methods: The current cross-sectional study was carried out among married females who were willing to participate and visited the OPD of a tertiary care hospital over the course of three months. A questionnaire was used to collect data, and proportions were used to present the ndings. Results: 300 women were ready to give written consent were recruited for study. 90% of those surveyed had heard about EC, with media being the main informational source. 81% correctly identied the time when oral tablets were used as EC, and 91% were aware that this was the case. 73% of people would be willing to use EC themselves in the event of unprotected intercourse, and 85% would recommend it to a friend or relative if necessary. About 70% of those surveyed have ever used EC. Conclusions: High literacy among married women explains their high awareness, positive attitude, and adequate use of EC. It shouldn't make authorities complacent; rather, they should push initiatives to reduce maternal mortality using regular contraceptives besides EC.