Perception and Practice of Emergency Contraception among Female Undergraduates of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria

ObjectiveTo assess perception and level of proper utilization of emergency contraception (EC) among female undergraduates.MethodsCross-sectional questionnaire study was performed on 383 female undergraduates in Nigeria in June 2006. Data analysis was with χ-square test and logistic regressions (P<0.05).ResultsOne hundred and five (48.2%) had been sexually exposed. Only 32 (30.5%) used regular contraception. Seventy-three (24.3%) female undergraduates were aware of EC. Only 29 (7.6%) had used EC before. Most would not use emergency contraceptive drugs in future due to lack of awareness (64.8%), and fear for future fertility and of drugs being injurious to health. Use of EC was associated with awareness of correct interval for use (OR=9.1; 95%CI: 2.1-39.9).ConclusionThere is poor knowledge about EC and poor use, while significant need remains. Most knowledge was acquired from peers and inaccurate. Peer educators are important and professionals' knowledge needs improvement.