Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
157
Views
13
Downloads
Abstract
In India, a significant proportion of pregnancies occur without prior planning or desire, contributing to population growth or prompting women to resort to unsafe termination methods, resulting in severe health implications. Emergency contraception, stemming from recent trials and research efforts spanning the last decade, aims to mitigate the incidence of unintended pregnancies and subsequent abortions, representing a crucial intervention in addressing this issue. This study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness regarding contraception and emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) among women of reproductive age. A cross‐sectional study was conducted over a four‐month period. Data encompassing demographic details, familiarity with various contraceptive methods, and awareness of ECPs were collected via an anonymous, pretested, structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel and Epiinfo software. The study comprised 321 participants, predominantly married, literate, from joint families, without a history of abortion, and with a sister in the family. Approximately 68% of participants were familiar with contraceptive methods, with hospitals serving as the primary source of information. Only 16% were aware of ECPs, with audio‐visual media being the most common informational source. Literate women exhibited greater awareness of contraception, while awareness of ECPs was higher among illiterate women. Additionally, participants with sisters in their families displayed enhanced knowledge regarding contraception and ECPs. The awareness regarding ECPs is alarmingly low. Educational interventions hold promise in elevating awareness levels surrounding ECPs, potentially through both direct and indirect means.
How to cite this article:
Komal Chhabra, Sonu Kumar Batham and Nishi Mishra. Assessment of Awareness Regarding Emergency Contraceptive Pills Among Female Patients Attending an Indian Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2024.4.261.265
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2024.4.261.265