Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Emergency Contraceptive among Undergraduate Female College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Emergency contraceptive is a unique type of family planning methods, which has been available since 1970s and can prevent pregnancy, when used after unprotected sex around the time of ovulation. Objectives: The main purpose of the study was to investigate the knowledge level, attitude towards and practice of emergency contraceptive among female college students. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used and data were collected by structured pre-tested questionnaire that 456 students were randomly selected. Logistic regression analysis was used and p <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: About 53.3% of the study participant’s knowledge level were good and 56.1% of them showed a positive attitude towards emergency contraceptive. Field of study, year of study and awareness were associated with the knowledge level. Age, year of study and sexual behavior were associated with attitudes towards emergency contraceptive. Attitude towards emergency contraceptive and sexual behavior were associated with the utilization of emergency contraceptive. Conclusions: The knowledge level, attitude towards and practice of emergency contraceptives were affected by age, field of study, level of study, awareness and sexual behavior.