Emergency hormonal contraception in adolescence.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Adolescent Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Emergency contraception (EC) is crucial for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse.
• Adolescent knowledge regarding EC is vital for effective use and reducing pregnancy rates in this demographic.
• Understanding adolescent awareness of EC's mechanism, efficacy, and safety is essential for targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the level of knowledge among Brazilian adolescents concerning emergency contraception (EC).
• To analyze awareness of EC's correct administration, usage frequency, efficacy, mechanism of action, and potential adverse effects.
• To identify knowledge gaps and misconceptions regarding EC among adolescents aged 11-19.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 148 adolescents aged 11-19 years.
• Participants completed a questionnaire assessing their knowledge and use of emergency contraception.
• Statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations between age and information sources.

Main Results:

• 8% of adolescents were unaware of EC; 56.7% of sexually active participants had used it.
• Knowledge of EC's mechanism (preventing fertilization) increased with age, from 41.2% (10-14 years) to 82.4% (15-19 years).
• Significant misconceptions exist regarding EC's risks, with many believing it causes abortion, cancer, infertility, or fetal malformations.

Conclusions:

• Adolescent knowledge of emergency contraception is unsatisfactory, particularly concerning its risks and complications.
• Educational interventions are needed to improve understanding of EC's safety profile and correct usage.
• Enhanced knowledge of EC can improve adherence and contribute to a reduction in unplanned adolescent pregnancies.