Characteristics of women seeking emergency contraception in general practice.
The aim of this study was to profile the users of emergency contraception (EC) attending general practices and a general practice out-of-hours co-operative service using a pre-piloted questionnaire. Questionnaires were offered to 171 women and completed by 144 (84.2%). Mean age was 24.4 years (Standard Deviation = 6.7, range 14 to 51). Most were single, 116 (80.6%). Those who had no regular partner at the time of seeking EC were more likely to have > or =6 lifetime sexual partners than those in stable relationships (OR: 3.5; CI: 1.14-10.86, p < 0.03). At the time of seeking EC 121 (84.0%) were using some method of contraception. Ninety-three (64.6%) presented within 24 hours of sexual intercourse. Concerns about condoms were the commonest reason for seeking EC. For 55 (38.2%) this was their first time to use EC. Thirty-three (22.9%) were drunk at the time of intercourse.
Wheaton Hall Medical Practice, Dublin Rd, Drogheda, Co. Louth. fionnuala.loughrey@nepc.ie
F
F
Loughrey
A
A
Matthews
D
D
Bedford
F
F
Howell
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003268:Contraception Behavior; D003282:Contraceptives, Postcoital, Hormonal / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003710:Demography; D005194:Family Practice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007494:Ireland
D003282:Contraceptives, Postcoital, Hormonal