Knowledge And Attitudes About The Use Of Emergency Contraception Among Adult Females In KSA: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Although many females are aware of different methods of contraception, emergency contraception use is relatively low. The present study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of Saudi females towards emergency contraception and identifying factors influencing this level and behavior.

Design and Setting: This was a cross-sectional survey study that included an electronic survey distributed to married females aging between 18 to 45 years old. Participants were females visiting the Obstetrics and Gynecology clinics/ Family Practice Clinics. The survey included information about participants' demographics, emergency contraception availability, and knowledge and attitude towards emergency contraception. Statistical analysis was done via SPSS version 26.

Results: 404 women responded to this questionnaire; of them, 254 were eligible for inclusion. 43.3% were in the age group between 26 to 35 years old, 45.7% had a monthly income between 10000 to 20000, 62.6% of the responders had a university degree, and 54.3% had less than or equal three children. Doctors were the most common source of information among 86.2%. 98.4% mentioned that emergency contraceptives were oral contraceptive pills; the most common suggested reason for using emergency contraception was family control among 62.6%. The mean score for the knowledge section was 3.7±2.2 points out of twelve, while the mean score for attitude was 3.1±1.7 points out of nine. Improved knowledge and attitudes were significantly correlated to high monthly incomes, higher educational levels, doctors as a source of information.

Conclusion: the knowledge and attitude of married females in Saudi Arabia are inadequate.