BACKGROUND: The copper T intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective but underutilized method of emergency contraception (EC). This study investigates the factors influencing a woman's decision around which method of EC to select. STUDY DESIGN: In-depth interviews with 14 IUD and 14 oral EC users aged 18-30 years accessing public health clinics. RESULTS: Emergency contraception users associated long-term methods of contraception with long-term sexual relationships. Women were not aware of the possibility of using the copper IUD for EC. Cost was identified as a major barrier to accessing IUDs. Perceived side effects and impact on future pregnancies further influenced the EC method a participant selected. CONCLUSIONS: Women think about contraception in the context of each separate relationship and not as a long-term individual plan. Most women were unaware of the copper IUD for EC. Furthermore, there is little discussion between women and their health-care providers around EC.
BACKGROUND: The copper T intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective but underutilized method of emergency contraception (EC). This study investigates the factors influencing a woman's decision around which method of EC to select. STUDY DESIGN: In-depth interviews with 14 IUD and 14 oral EC users aged 18-30 years accessing public health clinics. RESULTS: Emergency contraception users associated long-term methods of contraception with long-term sexual relationships. Women were not aware of the possibility of using the copper IUD for EC. Cost was identified as a major barrier to accessing IUDs. Perceived side effects and impact on future pregnancies further influenced the EC method a participant selected. CONCLUSIONS:Women think about contraception in the context of each separate relationship and not as a long-term individual plan. Most women were unaware of the copper IUD for EC. Furthermore, there is little discussion between women and their health-care providers around EC.
Authors: Juell B Homco; Jeffrey F Peipert; Gina M Secura; Vanessa A Lewis; Jenifer E Allsworth Journal: Contraception Date: 2009-07-10 Impact factor: 3.375