Affordable, convenient and discreet
Why emergency contraception is the family planning method of choice among female university students in Zambia
Datos Bibliográficos
A significant unmet need for family planning exists among Zambian adolescent women aged 15-24. This study investigated knowledge, attitudes and behaviours regarding contraception use and associated barriers with obtaining contraception, among a group of female university students in Lusaka, Zambia. A descriptive qualitative study was conducted using focus-group discussions (FGDs). Through a preliminary online survey, enrolled university students indicated interest in attending FGDs to discuss sexual and reproductive health perceptions, attitudes and behaviours, including contraception use. FGDs were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. Thirty-four female students participated in five FGDs. A key theme of frequent emergency contraception (EC) use emerged as a preferred pregnancy prevention method owing to its convenience, affordability and discretion. Barriers to accessing long-term, more reliable contraception methods included premarital sex stigma, healthcare workers' refusal to provide contraceptives, fears of contraceptive use judgement and misconceptions about side effects of other methods. Findings highlight favourable EC use among female university students over more reliable contraception options owing to significant health system and societal barriers. Differentiated service delivery methods, youth-friendly spaces and improved education to destigmatise contraception are needed in Zambia to mitigate high rates of unintended pregnancies for this vulnerable population
Emergency contraception · Family planning · Focus group · Health care · Population · Qualitative research · Reproductive health · Unintended pregnancy · Vulnerability (computing · Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health · Global Maternal and Child Health · Reproductive Health and Contraception
Adolescence and the social determinants of health
Adolescence
Perceptions of youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services in selected Higher and Tertiary Education Institutions of Zambia
Understanding adolescent girls’ experiences with accessing and using contraceptives in Zambia
Barriers to modern contraceptive methods uptake among young women in Kenya
Choosing a Contraceptive
I am the master key that opens and locks
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