Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Emergency Contraceptive Pill Use among Students in Muang District of Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to survey knowledge, attitude and behavior of emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) use among high school/college students in Muang district, Mahasarakham province. Methods:594 students in academic year 2011 were stratified and randomly selected from six schools/colleges. Data related to ECP were collected using self-administered questionnaire. A structured interview was conducted to elicit detailed data from 19 ECP users. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize quantitative data and Chi-square test was conducted to determine association between variables. Content analysis was used to summarize qualitative data. Results: The study results found that of total 594 students, most of them were female (62.8%), aged between 15 and 16 years (44.78%), studied in general education (65.0%), had cumulative grade point average (GPAX) ranged from 2.51 to 4.00 (79.3%), and lived with their parents or guardians (63.3%). Most of these students (45.45%) reported that they ever received information about ECP and (32.66%) received that information when they were in class. Most of these students (95.0%) perceived that the best way for pregnancy prevention is condom use. Most of these students (63.59%) had ECP knowledge score at lower level in particular ECP use in case of having sexual relationship more than twice a month. In female students (n=373), there were 40 ECP users (10.92%). Among these users, most of them reported that they used one ECP box in the past six months (55.0%). 36 ECP users (90.0%) reported correct ECP use instruction.16 ECP users (40.0%) reported that they ever got adverse events and the most one is change of menstrual cycle. From qualitative study, most of ECP users expressed that having sexual relationship is common but correct understanding about birth control is essential. However, correct information about ECP is needed, especially side effect, precaution and contraindication of ECP. Conclusion: ECP is one well-known contraceptive method among adolescents but there is misunderstandings about its indication. Therefore, health care providers in particular a pharmacist should provide sufficient information on indications, side effects, precautions and contraindications of ECP.