Knowledge of Emergency Contraceptive Methods among Female Undergraduate Students at Arbaminch University, Ethiopia

Abstract

Information about women’s knowledge of emergency contraceptives plays a major role in the reduction of unwanted pregnancy. This study aimed to assess Arbaminch University female students’ knowledge of emergency contraceptive methods.A cross-sectional study design was employed from January 1/2014-March, 2014, on 821 regular undergraduate female students. Multi stage stratified sampling was used with SRS technique. Data were entered on EPI info version 3.5.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 16.0.  Multivariable logistic regression was used.P-value less than 0.05 at 95% CI was taken for statistical significance.With regard to awareness of respondents on emergency contraceptives,475(57.9%)heard about emergency contraceptives,313(38.1%) mentioned oral pill, 124(15.1%) identified both methods34(4.1%)participants heard IUCD. Only 387(47.1%) study subjects were knowledgeable for emergency contraceptive methods. Finally, after controlling other variables  place of origin[AOR=1.84, 95% CI : 1.31-2.58],ever use of contraception[AOR=2. 51, 95% CI : 1.65-3.78] and accept the importance of family planning[ AOR=2.61,95% CI : 1.56-4.39]  were significantly associated.This study demonstrated lack of awareness and detail knowledge of emergency contraceptives amongfemale undergraduate students.Thus, there is a need to educate adolescents about emergency contraceptives with emphasis on the correct time limit for use.

Keywords: Emergency contraceptive, University, Female students