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Exploring Knowledge, Availability, Accessibility, and Utilization of Emergency Contraception in Ghana: A Scoping
Ofeibea Asare1, Sandra C Osuagwu1, Anvita Dixit1
1Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, CAN.
Cureus
|April 6, 2026
Summary
Emergency contraception (EC) in Ghana is primarily known as progestin-only pills, despite other methods existing. Limited awareness and access barriers hinder effective use, contributing to high unintended pregnancy rates.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Global Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Emergency contraception (EC) in Ghana has evolved from combined oral contraceptive pills to include progestin-only formulations.
- High unintended pregnancy rates persist, indicating suboptimal use of post-coital contraceptive methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review on emergency contraception (EC) in Ghana.
- To understand the current state of knowledge, availability, accessibility, and utilization of EC methods.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review was conducted using an established framework.
- Fifty-seven relevant source materials were identified, charted, and summarized.
Main Results:
- Research predominantly focuses on students, urban dwellers, and unmarried women.
- Knowledge of EC is largely limited to progestin-only emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), sourced through formal and peer channels.
- Progestin-only ECPs are available, but geographic access barriers remain. Some women use ECPs as their sole or supplementary pregnancy prevention method.
Conclusions:
- Despite the availability of various EC methods in Ghana, knowledge and utilization are concentrated on progestin-only ECPs.
- Further research is needed on women's experiences with seeking EC, increasing awareness of diverse methods, and understanding the use of progestin-only ECPs as a primary strategy.
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