Factors associated with emergency contraceptives use among female students at Makerere University

Abstract

Introduction: Uganda has one of the most rapidly growing population in the world, where its fertility rate is among the world’s highest at 5.8 children per woman. High numbers of births, short birth intervals and early age of childbearing contribute to high maternal mortality ratio with unsafe abortions being one of the major causes. Emergency contraceptives can reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure by between 75% and 99% if taken within 72 h of sexual intercourse (Croxatto et al., 2004). Objectives: The general objectives of this study are to assess factors associated with the use of emergency contraceptives among university students and the specific objectives are to assess the prevalence, use of emergency contraceptives and factors associated with emergency contraceptives use among female university students. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design employing the use of quantitative methods was used. The study was carried out in Makerere University located in Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda. 385 participants were interviewed. Data collected was analyzed using STATA 15.0. Ethical clearance was obtained from School of Health Sciences Institution Review Board and participation was voluntary. Results: A total of 385 (100% response rate) were obtained. Of the total, 238 (61.8%) were students 22 years or less (overall mean age was 22±2 years). One hundred forty-seven (54.9%) participants reported history of emergency contraceptives use. Students who were in relationship were twice more likely to have used emergency contraceptives compared to those who were not (OR: 4.0, p<0.001, 95%CI: 2.5-6.5). Other factors included history of pregnancy, (OR: 3.7, p<0.001, 95%CI: 2-6.8), and acceptability of emergency contraceptives in the community, (OR: 0.4, p=0.001, 95%CI: 0.2-0.6). Conclusion: The use of EC, was high 54.9%, the over uses emergency contraceptives, and it means that they have unsafe sex. The participants who have ever been pregnant, in romantic relationship, and it is accepted to use EC in the community were more likely using EC. This study established that the use of emergency contraceptives was associated with only acceptability of EC in the community. I recommend Ministry of health, policy makers and other health facilities need to develop strategies that involve in providing accurate information about EC use among students and organize different community outreach by providing adequate information.