Very little data exist regarding what women users know about emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and their actual experience using ECPs. Data are needed regarding users’ experiences in accessing this time-sensitive method as well as their specific knowledge about ECPs. This study’s objectives were to examine women’s experience and satisfaction with various aspects of their medical visit to obtain ECPs, and their perceived and actual knowledge regarding ECPs. Structured telephone interviews were conducted with 235 female users of ECPs dispensed through a large-scale demonstration project in an HMO in southern California. The majority of women reported being satisfied with their service delivery experience as well as with the method itself. Eighty-three percent stated they felt they had adequate information about ECP effectiveness; 88% reported they had adequate information about how ECPs work, however, 75% could not name even one mode of action. Women were well informed about dosage timing (87%) and the lack of protection against future episodes of unprotected intercourse (94%). Importantly, 80% of women who had not previously been regularly contracepting reported plans to begin a regular method of birth control. Implications for service delivery and health care policy will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Apply the findings to the design of service delivery programs that include ECPs; 2. Apply the findings to the development of policies to improve access to post-coital methods of contraception
Keywords: Contraception, Family Planning
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.