Knowledge and attitudes towards emergency contraception among adolescents

Abstract

Introduction. Emergency or postcoital contraception is a method of\n contraception that is used within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. It\n is very important that adolescents consider emergency contraception with\n awareness. It is not a regular method of contraception. The aim of this\n study was to examine the knowledge and attitudes of adolescents towards the\n use of emergency contraception. Material and Methods. The research was a\n cross-sectional study that used a specially designed questionnaire for\n adolescents intended to assess their knowledge about emergency contraception\n methods. The study included an intentional sample of 108 students attending\n the Medical High School ?Dr. Misa Pantic? in Valjevo. Participation in the\n study was voluntary and anonymous. Results. The largest number of students\n was informed about the indications for emergency contraception (80%, c2 =\n 0.004); the respondents agreed that emergency contraception is not a regular\n method of contraception and should be used in cases of sexual abuse (c2 =\n 0.019). Most of the respondents believe that they need additional education\n (N = 95, c2 = 0.032) regarding emergency contraception methods. Conclusion.\n The analysis of the results showed that the adolescents who participated in\n the study need additional education about the methods of emergency\n contraception. It is necessary to improve the strategies of health education\n of adolescents on this topic.