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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Does readily available emergency contraception increase women's awareness and use?
N Novikova1, E Weisberg, I S Fraser
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Sydney, Sydney Centre for Reproductive Health Research, Research Division of Family Planning NSW, Sydney, Australia.
Summary
Increased availability of the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) in Australia has improved women's awareness of emergency contraception (EC). However, this enhanced access has not led to a significant increase in EC use among women seeking abortions.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Public Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Unplanned pregnancies are common in Australia, with many preventable by emergency contraception (EC).
- A dedicated emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) pack was introduced in Australia in 2002 (prescription) and 2004 (over-the-counter).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of over-the-counter ECP availability on knowledge and use of emergency contraception (EC) in Australia.
Main Methods:
- Anonymous questionnaires were administered to women at three Sydney abortion clinics.
- Participants were grouped based on ECP availability: pre-dedicated pack, prescription-only, and over-the-counter.
Main Results:
- Awareness of ECP increased significantly after its over-the-counter availability.
- Younger women were more likely to have heard of EC.
- Higher educational attainment correlated with increased ECP use, but overall EC use did not significantly rise with improved access.
Conclusions:
- Wider availability of ECP has enhanced awareness among women seeking abortions.
- Despite increased awareness, the use of emergency contraception did not significantly increase with improved availability.
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