Abstract
Objective
We sought to describe the current usage patterns, knowledge regarding, and perception
of emergency contraception in adolescent patients.
Study design
We surveyed female patients ages 14 to 21 seen at the Pediatric and Gynecology Clinic
regarding emergency contraception. We posed questions to understand adolescent awareness,
personal usage, and means of obtaining emergency contraception. We also explored respondent
knowledge of emergency contraception and potential barriers to access.
Results
Of 261 patients approached, 253 completed the survey with a mean age of 16.7 ± 1.7
years. The majority of respondents (80.2%) had heard of oral emergency contraceptive
pills. Among sexually active adolescents, 25.6 % reported personal use. Older adolescents
(≥18 years) were more likely to have heard of emergency contraceptive pills, to know
someone who used them, and to have used it themselves compared to younger adolescents
(all p < 0.05). A minority of respondents knew that emergency contraception could be bought
over the counter regardless of age or gender (44.3%) and that parental consent is
not required (27.7%). Having ever been sexually active was associated with an increased
odds of being correct with regards to the availability and timing of LNG EC. A history
of LNG EC use was associated with an increased likelihood of understanding the mechanism
of action and side effects of LNG EC.
Conclusions
Though adolescents in our population were aware of emergency contraception, only a
small portion had used it themselves. Misunderstandings regarding the availability
and safety of emergency contraception were common in our population.
Implications
Educating adolescents on the availability, safety, and mechanism of action of LNG
EC may improve utilization of LNG EC in this population.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 13, 2021
Accepted:
January 10,
2021
Received in revised form:
December 29,
2020
Received:
August 5,
2020
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
