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American Public Health Association
133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition
December 10-14, 2005
Philadelphia, PA
APHA 2005
 
3049.0: Monday, December 12, 2005 - Table 2

Abstract #114377

Barriers and facilitators to emergency contraceptive acceptance in western Honduras

Heather M. Marlow, BA, Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health Emory University, 405 South Candler Street, Decatur, GA 30030, 404-917-9449, hmarlow@sph.emory.edu and Kathryn Yount, PhD, Department of International Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30322.

Emergency contraception (EC) in the form of combined oral contraceptives in high doses became part of the Honduran Ministry of Health's Family planning policy in June 2003. EC was promoted and made available through the Ministry of Health and the Honduran Association of Family Planning. The introduction and acceptance of emergency contraception has been difficult in Honduras because many people have never heard of the method. Confusion about EC's timing, dose and whether it is abortion persists. This study explores barriers and facilitators to EC acceptance in three states of western Honduras. Qualitative methods were used to elicit beliefs and norms about emergency contraception among women of reproductive age (15-45 years). The study also explored women's experiences with unintended pregnancies and abortion and how those experiences shape their acceptability of emergency contraception. Positive experiences with contraception, experience with unintended pregnancy, and failed attempts to abort unwanted pregnancies are associated with women's acceptance of EC. Fears and beliefs about contraception, negative experiences with contraception, and family influences make women guarded about emergency contraception and many would like more information about the method.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

Keywords: Contraception, International Family Planning

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Implications in Reproductive Health Services: Youth, Women, HIV/AIDS/STI, Emergency Contraception

The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA