Do instructions for over-the-counter pre-coital female contraceptives promote "perfect use"?
BACKGROUND
This study was conducted to estimate the readability and related features of English-language over-the-counter (OTC) pre-coital female contraceptive (PFC) instructions.


METHODS
We identified and purchased all currently available OTC PFCs (n=8), including Encare (Contraceptive Gel and Insert), F.C. Female Condom, Ortho Options (Conceptrol, Delfen and Gyncol II Jelly), Today Sponge and VCF Vaginal Film. Reading grade level was calculated using the Simple Measure of Gobbledygook. Text point size was measured and total number of graphics was tallied. Graphic dimensions were also measured. We also assessed OTC PFC instructions on four main criteria--derived from the "User-Friendliness Tool (UFT)"--including layout features, graphic characteristics, presence of a clear message and presentation of manageable information.


RESULTS
Reading level ranged from 8th to 12th grade (mean+/-SD=10.0+/-1.2). Mean page length was 24.4+/-7.0 cm (9.6+/-2.76 in.), while average page width was 20.3+/-13.8 cm (7.99+/-5.43 in.). Average text point size was 7.9+/-2.3 (range=6-12). Illustrations, predominantly line drawings, were used throughout (range=3-11), and most were similar in size to a matchbox. None of the "How to Use" sections scored high in all criteria on the UFT.


CONCLUSIONS
"How to Use" sections of OTC PFC instructions should be revised to be easier to read and more user friendly. Ideally, the gap between "typical" and "perfect" contraceptive efficacy could potentially be narrowed if instructions were developed that the large majority of women could easily understand.
Zite
Nikki B
NB
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA. nzite@mc.utmck.edu
Wallace
Lorraine S
LS
D032882:Comprehension; D054626:Consumer Health Information / Q000592:standards*; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; D004348:Drug Labeling / Q000592:standards*
D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female