[The use and effects of postcoital contraception].
OBJECTIVE
To find those people seeking post-coital contraception (PCC), its efficacy and effects.


METHODS
A crossover study using a structured questionnaire, filled in both at the moment of demand and after using PCC.


METHODS
The "Nóvoa Santos" Family Planning Centre in Ourense.


METHODS
All those requesting PCC between January 1995 and June 1996 (220 in all).


METHODS
The PCC norm was 8 pills, two taken every 12 hours, of 0.05 mg of Ethinyloestradiol (EE) plus 0.5 mg of Norgestrel.


RESULTS
We analysed social and demographic variables, sexual behaviour and PCC use with the SPSS programme for Windows. 96.4% attending were women, average age 21.98. They began coitus at 18.58 years old. 191 (86.8%) had a stable partner and 0 to 3 coitus per week. The condom was the commonest method (90.6%).


CONCLUSIONS
Young women requesting PCC immediately after the risk coitus are students and residents in the city. It is a method used when there are problems with the condom and the frequency of failure is low. Sexually active people should be informed of the existence and use of PCC, as should the health professionals who could be asked for it.
Sueiro
E
E
Centro de Orientación Familiar Nóvoa Santos, Ourense.
Perdiz
C
C
Gayoso
P
P
Doval
J L
JL
D000328:Adult; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003268:Contraception Behavior / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003283:Contraceptives, Postcoital, Synthetic / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D019304:Ethinyl Estradiol-Norgestrel Combination / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013030:Spain; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013607:Tablets; D013997:Time Factors
D003283:Contraceptives, Postcoital, Synthetic; D013607:Tablets; D019304:Ethinyl Estradiol-Norgestrel Combination