Women's knowledge of taking oral contraceptive pills correctly and of emergency contraception: effect of providing information leaflets in general practice
Smith, L.F.; Whitfield, M.J.
British Journal of General Practice the Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners 45(397): 409-414
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0960-1643 PMID: 7576845 Document Number: 313826
Beginning in October 1992, a study was undertaken in the UK to determine 1) the extent of women's knowledge of correct use of oral contraceptives (OCs) and of emergency contraception (EC), 2) which factors were associated with such knowledge, and 3) whether the provision of appropriate Family Planning Association (FPA) leaflets improved knowledge in these areas. The study was conducted simultaneously in a small, rural, nontraining practice and in a large, urban training practice. Data were gathered from anonymous, self-administered questionnaires. After completion of the questionnaires, the women were given FPA leaflets with information on OC use and emergency contraception. The same questionnaire was administered when the women returned for their follow-up appointment (3-12 months later) or by mail (449 women completed the first questionnaire and 233 completed the second). Statistical analysis of the data from the first phase of the study revealed that respondents with lower socioeconomic status were less likely to know that their OC contained two hormones. Rural respondents and those who had a history of abortion were less likely to know that they could take an OC up to 12 hours after their usual time. Urban respondents and those who has used EC were more likely to know where EC is available. Knowledge of EC was also positively related to having become pregnant by mistake and having a higher socioeconomic status. The intervention increased the proportion of women using a combined OC who knew their OC had two hormones. Knowledge also increased about the requirement for extra precautions if they took their OC more than 12 hours late (this was a significant increase among the rural women). Knowledge of sources of EC also improved (significantly for those who had never used EC and for rural women). Knowledge of the two methods of EC also improved significantly. The provision of information in the form of leaflets increased knowledge significantly. Such improved knowledge may decrease the incidence of unplanned pregnancies and, thus, of abortion. Further research is needed to determine the effect of general practitioners' personally providing the leaflets with or without verbal instruction.