The knowledge of emergency contraception and dispensing practices of Patent Medicine Vendors in South West Nigeria

Abstract

Patent Medicine Vendors (PMVs) can play a critical role in increasing access to emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) in developing countries, but few studies have examined their knowledge and dispensing practices. Using cluster sampling, the authors selected and interviewed 97 PMVs (60.8 per cent female) in Oyo and Ogun States of Nigeria to assess their knowledge, dispensing practices, and referral for ECPs. About one-third (27.8 per cent) of respondents were not aware of ECPs, and only half knew that ECPs could prevent pregnancy. Forty per cent had ever dispensed ECPs. Reasons proffered by those who do not dispense ECPs included barriers from the State Ministry of Health, police, other regulatory agencies, and religious beliefs. Only 50.5 per cent have referral arrangements for clients. Strategies to increase access to ECPs through PMVs include training on counseling techniques and referral, effective government regulation, and community involvement. Where unsafe abortion is a major cause of maternal mortality, these strategies offer protection for many women in the future.

Examining characteristics, knowledge and regulatory practices of specialized drug shops in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review of the literature

“…This phenomenon, seen in Kenya and Nigeria [9,23,24], may explain Greer et al’ s observation of relatively low staff turnover among rural PMVs in Nigeria, where over half of staff had worked at the same shop for over 4 years [25]. Although staff qualification varied substantially, those working in pharmacies and part II drug shops generally held higher qualifications compared to those working in PMVs.…”

Family planning providers' perspectives on family planning service delivery in Ibadan and Kaduna, Nigeria: a qualitative study

“…Despite these safeguards, however, the low prevalence of training in family planning methods, both within and outside skilled care settings, points to a clear area for improvement. This lack of training in family planning has been seen in previous research among PMVs in Nigeria 6. Since the role of counselling is generally regarded as integral in contraceptive uptake and use, training providers in all spheres of skill should be prioritised 22–24…”

“…While PMVs are expected to stock contraceptives such as condoms,5 they are allowed only to re-supply, but not initiate, oral contraceptive pills 6. They are also prohibited from providing injectable contraceptive and emergency contraception services, though some do so regardless 7.…”

“…Previous research in Nigeria has mostly centred around specific cadres of family planning providers, for example PMVs or physicians serving in primary care settings 6 8 9. A fair amount of this research has focused on knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding particular methods, specifically emergency contraception and abortion 6 9–11.…”

“…A fair amount of this research has focused on knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding particular methods, specifically emergency contraception and abortion 6 9–11. Less research has focused on family planning provision itself.…”