Knowledge and attitudes towards emergency contraception among adolescents

Abstract

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

Contraceptive use and reproductive intentions among female students at the University of Novi Sad

“…The absence of sexual education puts adolescents and young adults at significant risk, due to their lack of knowledge about the use of contraception (Savic et al, 2021). A large share of unintended pregnancies in Serbia occurs between the ages of 18 and 24 (Mijatović et al, 2014).…”