Emergency contraception pills among female students: Use, knowledge, perceptions, and expectations
Alison Catilaz1, Anne-Laure Clairet2, Marilia Girault3
1CHU Besançon, Pôle Pharmacie, F-25030 Besançon, France.
European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology
|January 14, 2026
Summary
Nearly 40% of female students have used emergency contraception pills (ECP). Users demonstrated better knowledge and perceptions of ECP, highlighting the need for improved access to accurate information and enhanced healthcare professional guidance.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception
- Student Health
Background:
- Emergency contraception pills (ECP) are crucial for preventing unintended pregnancies.
- Understanding student knowledge, perceptions, and usage patterns of ECP is vital for targeted interventions.
- Previous research indicates varying levels of awareness and access to ECP among young women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of emergency contraception pill (ECP) use among female university students.
- To analyze the characteristics, knowledge, perceptions, and expectations associated with ECP use.
- To gather feedback from previous ECP users to inform future strategies.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, voluntary online survey was administered to 2,157 female students at Marie and Louis Pasteur University (2022-2023).
- The survey assessed demographics, contraceptive practices, ECP knowledge, perceptions, and user experiences.
- Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were employed to interpret the data.
Main Results:
- 39.1% of surveyed female students reported prior use of emergency contraception pills (ECP).
- ECP users exhibited higher knowledge, more positive perceptions, and were more likely to use condoms.
- Condom breakage, forgotten regular contraception, or no method use were primary reasons for ECP utilization; most obtained ECP from community pharmacies.
Conclusions:
- A moderate rate of ECP use exists among female students, with general awareness of its indications.
- Findings underscore the necessity for enhanced access to reliable ECP information.
- Further exploration of healthcare professionals' roles and educational strategies is recommended to promote appropriate ECP use.
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