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Leon-Larios F, Ruiz-Ferron C, Jalon-Neira RM, Praena-Fernández JM. Nursing Students' Knowledge, Awareness, and Experiences of Emergency Contraception Pills' Use. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11020418. [PMID: 35054112 PMCID: PMC8780468 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11020418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergency contraception pill (ECP) is a non-prescribed medication in Spain. However, there is not enough evidence of its use among young people to define sex education contents. The aims of this research were to describe the experiences of the use of the ECP in university students and analyze their knowledge, attitude, and awareness regarding the ECP. The cross-sectional, analytic study was conducted with nursing degree students at the University of Seville. A total of 478 students answered the questionnaire. All of the students (100%) had heard about the ECP and had a positive attitude towards this contraceptive. A total of 25.7% had used the ECP, mainly because a condom had failed or because they did not use any contraceptive at all. Deficiencies in knowledge are related with the ECPs' mechanism of action, efficacy after repeated use, and the type of ECP available. Female students who used no method at all or withdrawal, and who were over 20 years old, used ECP to a greater extent (p < 0.005). Further education initiatives focused on the use of the ECP, its efficacy, and typology are needed, particularly among future health professionals who will later educate other young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Leon-Larios
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain; (F.L.-L.); (J.-M.P.-F.)
| | - Cecilia Ruiz-Ferron
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain; (F.L.-L.); (J.-M.P.-F.)
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Juan-Manuel Praena-Fernández
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain; (F.L.-L.); (J.-M.P.-F.)
- Unit Biostatistic, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
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Meier S, Giannone A, Umberger A, Mason CJ, Ramos-Ortiz J, Szabo MM, DeMaria AL. Messaging and access strategies for improving emergency contraceptive knowledge and uptake among Italians. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2021; 27:166-172. [PMID: 34860140 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2021.2008346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Over-the-counter emergency contraception (EC) purchase was legalised in Italy in 2015. Knowledge and access gaps, however, remain. The goal of this study was to explore women's and men's EC informational and access needs. METHODS As part of a larger reproductive study, researchers conducted 42 in-depth interviews (May-June 2019) with English-speaking women and men aged 18-50 years (mean ± standard deviation, 29.1 ± 7.9 years) living in or near Florence, Italy, and using the Italian health care system. Researchers completed qualitative data analysis to identify emergent themes related to EC knowledge, attitudes and access. HyperRESEARCH aided data organisation and analysis. Researchers used a comparative method to contextualise data and identify emergent themes. RESULTS Findings demonstrated that peer communication and experiences served as influential factors in others' EC use. This propagated misinformation, reducing participants' confidence in EC efficacy and safety. Women described the relevance of relationship type in whether to engage men in EC discussion, while men desired an active supportive role. Finally, participants described various messaging and access channels to increase EC knowledge and access. CONCLUSION Findings offer practical recommendations to guide social marketing and behaviour change interventions to increase EC access among women and men in Italy. The utility of pharmacists to individuals wishing to access EC is explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Meier
- Division of Consumer Science, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Allison Giannone
- School of Nursing, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Alexia Umberger
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Cayley J Mason
- School of Nursing, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jaziel Ramos-Ortiz
- Division of Consumer Science, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | | | - Andrea L DeMaria
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Meier S, Ball E, Jamieson KL, Sunkel SL, DeMaria AL. Translating policy to practice: theory-based formative research to improve messaging and over-the-counter access to emergency contraception in Florence, Italy. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2020; 25:285-292. [PMID: 32496887 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2020.1774538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Italy's 2015 emergency contraception (EC) policy made EC available without prescription for individuals aged 18 years and older; however, women living in Italy continue to face barriers to accessing EC. The purposes of this study were to understand EC knowledge, attitudes and behaviours among women living in Italy and explore the impact of the 2015 policy. METHODS Researchers conducted 30 interviews with women living in Florence, Italy, aged 18-50 years and using the Italian health care system. Researchers used an expanded grounded theory approach to understand women's EC experiences, with diffusion of innovations (DOI) serving as a conceptual lens. Researchers completed open and axial coding to identify emerging themes. RESULTS Participants had low awareness of the 2015 EC policy and suggested increased messaging in strategic locations to overcome this barrier. They held positive and negative attitudes towards EC: while some perceived the advantage of EC compared with unintended pregnancy, others expressed concerns about irresponsible behaviour and safety. Finally, conscientious objection impacted access, despite women's desire for autonomous EC decision making. CONCLUSION The findings offer practical recommendations to guide EC messaging in Italy to increase women's access to EC. Recommendations include using theory- and audience-based methods to overcome gaps in policy knowledge and real and perceived barriers to EC access. Incorporating DOI as a theoretical framework with women's voices presents a novel opportunity to enhance policy and EC dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Meier
- Division of Consumer Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Emily Ball
- College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | | | - Scotlyn L Sunkel
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Andrea L DeMaria
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Ryu K, Lee M, Kim Y, Ban S, Choi M. [How Does Advance Provision of Emergency Contraceptives Affect Contraceptive Use and Sexual Activity Among Adolescents? Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis]. J Korean Acad Nurs 2018; 48:255-265. [PMID: 29968682 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2018.48.3.255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of emergency contraceptive pill on adolescent sexuality and contraceptive behaviors through a meta - analysis of intervention studies on advance provision of emergency contraceptives. This study aimed to provide objective data on the transition of general medicines to be discussed in relation to the reclassification of emergency contraceptive pills. METHODS Using electronic database, 1,820 studies written in Korean or English without limitation of the year were reviewed and for analysis, 5 studies were selected, in which emergency contraceptives were provided to adolescents. RESULTS The advance provision of emergency contraceptives has increased their use and shortened the time it takes to take contraceptive pills after unprotected sex. There was no change in the frequency of engaging in sexual intercourse and unprotected sex or in existing contraceptive behavior, pregnancy rates decreased, but there was no increase in sexually transmitted infection. CONCLUSION The results of this study provide objective grounds for the reclassification of emergency contraceptive pills and propose effective interventional programs on contraceptive education, such as on efficacy and side effects of the contraceptive drug and its proper use among the youth who engage in sexual activity, to improve their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsoon Ryu
- College of Nursing, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Misoon Lee
- College of Nursing, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea.
| | - Younghae Kim
- College of Nursing, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Seonhwa Ban
- College of Nursing, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Mihyang Choi
- Department of Nursing, Changshin University, Changwon, Korea
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Olivari MG, Cuccì G, Confalonieri E. Italian Adolescents and Emergency Contraception: A Focus Group Study. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2017; 30:41-46. [PMID: 27592147 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2016.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Using a qualitative method, the purpose of this study was to: (1) obtain information directly from the adolescents on their attitudes and knowledge regarding emergency contraception; and (2) investigate the presence of differences between male and female participants' attitudes and knowledge. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS This study consisted of 24 single-sex focus groups with 160 adolescents (male = 46.3% (74 of 160); female = 53.7% (86 of 160)) aged 15-19 years conducted among high schools in 3 regions of Italy. RESULTS Data were analyzed through thematic analysis taking into account gender differences and 2 main themes emerged. The first was labeled "Adolescents' attitudes toward emergency contraception" and it was divided into 3 subthemes: You should be aware; It's a life line; and Everything but a child. The second theme was labeled "Adolescents' knowledge toward emergency contraception" and it was divided into 3 subthemes: False myths; Baseline information; and Just take it. CONCLUSION Italian adolescents believed it is important to prevent the risk of unprotected sex by using contraceptive methods and their motivation to use emergency contraception is related to critical attitudes toward the consequences of irresponsible/ineffective contraception. Although adolescents have an awareness of emergency contraception, more comprehensive knowledge is needed. These findings can inform specific interventions aimed at educating adolescents in need of emergency contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giulia Olivari
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano, CRIdee, Milano, Italy.
| | - Gaia Cuccì
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano, CRIdee, Milano, Italy
| | - Emanuela Confalonieri
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano, CRIdee, Milano, Italy
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Bastianelli C, Rosato E, Farris M, Benagiano G. Emergency contraception: a survey of 1773 women. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2016; 21:455-461. [DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2016.1237630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bastianelli
- Department of Gynaecology–Obstetrics and Urology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Rosato
- Department of Gynaecology–Obstetrics and Urology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Farris
- Department of Gynaecology–Obstetrics and Urology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- AIED Italian Association for Demographic Education, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Benagiano
- Department of Gynaecology–Obstetrics and Urology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Kistnasamy EJ, Reddy P, Jordaan J. An evaluation of the knowledge, attitude and practices of South African university students regarding the use of emergency contraception and of art as an advocacy tool. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/20786204.2009.10873896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Lech MM, Ostrowska L, Swiątek E. Emergency contraception in a country with restricted access to contraceptives and termination of pregnancy, a prospective follow-up study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2013; 92:1183-7. [PMID: 23763598 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 06/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Poland has a restrictive abortion law. Emergency contraception (EC) is expensive and available only on prescription, which is not easily obtainable in public health care. We aimed to identify the main reasons for EC requests, observed failure rates and the type and incidence of adverse effects. DESIGN Prospective single-center observational study. POPULATION A cohort of women living in Warsaw, who requested EC. METHODS Data were collected via a questionnaire completed by healthcare providers prescribing EC, and included age, date of the request, previous EC use, time from intercourse to clinic visit and day of menstrual cycle on which intercourse took place. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Reason for EC request, time lapse between unprotected intercourse and EC use, age of women requesting EC, reported cases of pregnancy. RESULTS A total of 4655 women requested EC. Of these 62.9% (n = 2928) were ≤25 years old. During follow up, 0.75% (31 individuals) became pregnant. Adverse effects of hormonal EC were rare and mild. The main reason for requesting EC was problems associated with condoms (63.2%, n = 2609). The mean interval between unprotected intercourse and EC use was 21.2 h, but 26.7 h when EC failed (n.s.). Considering intake within and after 24 h, the difference was significant (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Women living in Warsaw seeking EC used the EC product very soon after unprotected intercourse, and this was probably one of the most important reasons for the low pregnancy rates in the studied population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medard M Lech
- Fertility and Sterility Research Centre, Warsaw, Poland
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David M, Radke AM, Pietzner K. The Prescription of the Morning-After Pill in a Berlin Emergency Department Over a Four-Year Period - User Profiles and Reasons for Use. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2012; 72:392-396. [PMID: 25298542 DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1298446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Revised: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Questions: There are no current health care studies from Germany regarding the "morning-after pill". This paper will use routine data to analyse details regarding the users' profiles, reasons for using it and the utilisation of hospital outpatient facilities. Patient Collective and Methods: Retrospective analysis of all triage sheets in the emergency department of the Virchow Hospital Campus/Charité University Hospital, Berlin, over a four-year period from 2007 to 2010 that were coded with the ICD diagnosis Z30 (= contraception advice) and statistical processing of the associated administrative data. Results: 860 triage sheets were included in the analysis. The emergency department is used most frequently for the prescription of the "morning-after pill" at the weekend. The average age of the users was 25.1 years. The most common reason cited for needing emergency contraception was unprotected sexual intercourse, with the second-most common being "condom failure". Around half of the women attended the department within 12 hours of having unprotected sex. Less than 2 % (n = 14) of all women decided against a prescription of emergency contraceptive after counselling. Conclusions: The user profile and reasons for using emergency oral contraception correlate largely with the information contained in international literature. Although the "morning-after pill" is probably prescribed mainly in general practices in Germany, and despite the availability of new drugs with a permitted post-exposure interval of up to 120 hours after unprotected sex, there appears to still be a high demand for counselling and prescriptions of the "morning-after pill" in the context of the emergency department.
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Affiliation(s)
- M David
- Department of Gynaecology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Virchow Hospital Campus, Berlin
| | - A-M Radke
- Department of Gynaecology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Virchow Hospital Campus, Berlin
| | - K Pietzner
- Department of Obstetric Medicine, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Virchow Hospital Campus, Berlin
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Tafuri S, Martinelli D, Germinario C, Prato R. A survey of opinions on emergency contraception in young women in Southern Italy. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2012; 17:164-9. [DOI: 10.3109/13625187.2012.655810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Melton L, Stanford JB, Dewitt MJ. Use of levonorgestrel emergency contraception in Utah: is it more than "plan B"? PERSPECTIVES ON SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2012; 44:22-29. [PMID: 22405148 DOI: 10.1363/4402212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT It is important to understand why some women use levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive pills repeatedly, because the method is not intended for repeated use, and current evidence suggests that it is approximately 77% effective at preventing pregnancy. METHODS An anonymous patient survey of 1,040 women aged 18-29 purchasing levonorgestrel at Planned Parenthood clinics in Utah was conducted during a 4-6-week period in 2007. Chi-square tests and analyses of variance were used to examine associations between selected characteristics and level of levonorgestrel use. Logistic regression was used to assess characteristics independently associated with repeated use. RESULTS Twenty-nine percent of participants had used levonorgestrel more than twice in the prior year. Fifty-eight percent believed that levonorgestrel is at least 90% effective in protecting against pregnancy; 16% believed that it is 100% effective. In univariate analyses, lifetime number of partners, currently having multiple partners, substance use at last intercourse and perceived effectiveness of levonorgestrel were positively associated with repeated levonorgestrel use in the previous year. The measure most strongly associated with repeated levonorgestrel use in multivariate analyses was perceived effectiveness: Women who believed that the method is 90-99% or 100% effective in preventing pregnancy had greater odds of repeated use than those who believed it is 75-89% effective (odds ratios, 1.8 each). CONCLUSION Women who repeatedly use levonorgestrel may have an inflated perception of its effectiveness. Future research, including qualitative research, may help clarify factors that lead to inflated perceptions of effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Melton
- Division of Public Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA.
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Chin-Quee D, Hinson L, L'Engle KL, Otterness C, Janowitz B. Bridge over troubled waters: considerations in transitioning emergency contraceptive users to hormonal methods. Contraception 2011; 85:363-8. [PMID: 22067764 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2011.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 07/28/2011] [Accepted: 07/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) become increasingly available through pharmacies, concerns about potential overuse of this product have emerged. In response, bridging women from ECPs to ongoing contraception was advanced as a solution. STUDY DESIGN We collected information in Ghanaian pharmacies on ECP users' sexual activity, use of contraceptive methods and reasons for buying ECPs. Further, two behavioral indicators were examined to determine whether a woman should consider using an ongoing contraceptive method: how often she has sex and how she uses ECPs. RESULTS Of the four types of ECP users, stratified by those two indicators, only women who have sex frequently and use ECPs as their main contraceptive method would be appropriate for, but not necessarily amenable to, bridging. CONCLUSIONS The challenges of bridging to meet the contraceptive needs of women are discussed in light of the characteristics of emergency contraceptive users and suggest that bridging is not as straightforward as initially conceived.
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Bharadwaj P, Saxton JC, Mann SN, Jungmann EMA, Stephenson JM. What influences young women to choose between the emergency contraceptive pill and an intrauterine device? A qualitative study. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2011; 16:201-9. [PMID: 21438850 DOI: 10.3109/13625187.2011.565891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore key factors influencing young women when choosing between two methods of emergency contraception (EC). METHODS We interviewed 26 young women who accessed community sexual and reproductive health services for emergency contraception after they had chosen an EC. RESULTS Most women had an unrealistically high expectation about efficacy of the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) and lacked knowledge of the intrauterine device (IUD) as an alternative method of EC. Previous use, easy accessibility, ease of use, and advice from peers, influenced women to choose the ECP, whereas past experience of abortion, firm motivation to avoid pregnancy, presentation after 72 hours, and considering that an IUD may provide long-term contraception as well, inclined women to choose the IUD. When participants were shown the IUD, many found it to be smaller and less frightening than they had imagined. CONCLUSIONS Women need better information and education about the IUD as a highly effective method of EC. Health professionals must provide such information at every opportunity. Showing the IUD during counselling might help correct misconceptions and would improve acceptability. Wider availability of expertise concerning EC-IUDs is essential to assist more women in making informed decisions when choosing a method for EC.
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Piascik P, Lowe FH, Moore GR, Wallace DL, Steinke DT. Drug-utilization evaluation of emergency contraception in a major public university student population. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1759-8893.2010.00016.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Gómez MA, Sola A, Cortés MJ, Mira JJ. Sexual behaviour and contraception in people under the age of 20 in Alicante, Spain. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2009; 12:125-30. [PMID: 17559010 DOI: 10.1080/13625180701330555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe and to analyse the relationship between patterns of sexually-risky behaviour and emergency contraception among young females attending a Family Planning Centre (FPC). METHODS Data was obtained from a systematic analysis of 384 health records. RESULTS Mean age of the sample subjects was 18.24 years (SD 1.47, range 13-20). Of these, 92% were single, 60% students and 83% were with the same partner. Age at first intercourse was 16.5 years (SD 1.52, range 11-20). Those who used condoms systematically totalled 72%. Mean number of sexual partners was 1.85 (SD 2.91, range 1-50). A total of 9% had become pregnant and 2% had had an abortion. Emergency contraception was resorted to by 26% of the young women on at least one occasion. Emergency contraception was related to younger age at first sexual intercourse (p < 0.001) and to a great number of partners (p = 0.011). Of the total number of subjects, 48.4% demonstrated sexually-risky behaviour. This behaviour was related to alcohol consumption (p < 0.0001) and to the existence of dysfunction (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Spanish youngsters have enough knowledge regarding contraception. Condoms are mostly used on the occasion of a first sexual intercourse. However, the frequency of sexually-risky behaviour is still high due to the limited use of condoms in successive sexual relations with the same partner. Sexually-risky behaviour is also related to a high number of partners and to alcohol consumption on weekends.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Angeles Gómez
- Centro de Planificación Familiar Alicante III, Agencia Valenciana de Salud, Alicante, Spain.
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Abstract
Emergency contraception (EC), also known as 'the morning after pill', or post-coital contraception, is a modality of preventing the establishment of a pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Both a hormonal and an intrauterine form are available. Modern hormonal EC, with low side effects, was first proposed by Yuzpe in 1974. More recently, a new regimen, consisting of levonorgestrel administered alone, was introduced and found in clinical trials to be more effective (if taken as early as possible), and associated with less side effects than the Yuzpe regimen, which it has gradually replaced. The WHO developed another regimen based on the use of the selective progesterone receptor modulator (antiprogestin) mifepristone and conducted trials with different dosages. Intrauterine EC was first proposed by Lippes in 1976. It has the advantage of being applicable for almost a week and the disadvantage of a greater complexity. In addition, this modality is solely interceptive, acting by preventing implantation. Pregnancy rates reported following EC using an intrauterine device with more than 300 mm2 of copper are consistently low (0.1-0.2%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bastianelli
- Department of Gynaecologic Sciences, Perinatology and Child Care, University la Sapienza, Rome, Italy.
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Virtala AM, Kunttu K, Huttunen TA, Virjo IO. Sexual intercourse and current contraceptive use among university students in Finland. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2007; 135:104-10. [PMID: 17292529 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2006.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2006] [Revised: 04/17/2006] [Accepted: 07/19/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To ascertain the current frequency of sexual intercourse, the current use of contraceptives, the ever use of emergency contraception, and the ever experience of condom failure among Finnish university students. STUDY DESIGN The study population consisted of Finnish undergraduate university students (19-34 years of age) in 2004. The randomly selected sample comprised 5030 subjects. The data were collected by postal questionnaire, the response rate being 62.7%. Data were presented with frequency distributions and cross-tabulations. Chi-square test was used. Frequencies for women and men were presented and tested separately. RESULTS A total of 80% of students were currently practicing sexual intercourse. Approximately half of the female students currently used hormonal contraception and one-third used a condom. Almost half of the men currently used a condom. The simultaneous use of condom and hormonal contraception was rare. Condom failure was common. The ever use of emergency contraception appeared to be associated with condom failure. CONCLUSION Of Finnish university students 80% were sexually active and hormonal contraceptives were the most popular method of contraception among female students. The use of the condom should be practiced more often for prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aira M Virtala
- Finnish Student Health Service, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.
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Sarkar NN. Does the use of a condom involve a risk for contacting sexually transmitted infections, HIV/AIDS? J Public Health (Oxf) 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-006-0081-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Abstract
Although non-barrier contraceptive use has become a global norm, unprotected sex in relation to sexually transmitted infections remains the norm almost everywhere. Dual protection is protection from unwanted pregnancy, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, and is a form of safer sex for heterosexual couples that is more needed than practised or understood. This paper draws on a review of the literature in family planning, obstetrics and gynaecology, and AIDS-related journals from 1998 to early 2005. Definitions of dual protection, found mainly in family planning literature, are very narrow. Condoms remain the mainstay of dual protection, but the aim of this paper is to provide an expanded list of dual protection methods to show that there is a range of options. These include non-penetrative sex and the increasing use of condoms with the back-up of emergency contraception on the part of young people. The fact that people may fail to use dual protection consistently and correctly is not a valid reason not to promote it. It is never too late for those providing family planning and STI/HIV prevention services to start promoting condoms and dual protection. In the long-term, the development of highly efficacious and highly acceptable methods of dual protection is an urgent research priority, starting with a wider range of condoms that will appeal to more people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marge Berer
- International Consortium for Medical Abortion. London, UK.
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