Health Care Providers' Knowledge of, Attitudes toward and Provision of Emergency Contraceptives in Lagos, Nigeria
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Date
2016
Authors
Ebuehi, O.A.T.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Guttmacher Institute
Abstract
Emergency contraception can play an important role in reducing the rate of unintended pregnancies in
Nigeria. Although it is included in the national family planning guidelines, there is limited awareness of this method
among clients.
METHODS: In 2003-2004, a sample of256 health care providers within Lagos State were surveyed about their knowl-
edge of, attitudes toward and provision of emergency contraceptives, using a 25-item, self-administered question-
naire. Frequencies were calculated for the various measures, and chi-square tests were used to determine significant
differences.
RESULTS: Nine in 10 providers had heard of emergency contraception, but many lacked specific knowledge about the
method. Only half of them knew the correct time frame for effective use of emergency contraceptive pills, and three-
fourths knew that the pills prevent pregnancy; more than a third incorrectly believed that they may act as an abortifa-
cient. Fewer than a third of respondents who had heard of the pills knew that they are legal in Nigeria. Of those who
had heard about emergency contraception, 58% had provided clients with emergency contraceptive pills, yet only
10% of these providers could correctly identify the drug, dose and timing of the first pill in the regimen. Furthermore,
fewer than one in 10 of those who knew of emergency contraception said they always provided information to clients,
whereas a fourth said they never did so.
CONCLUSIONS: Nigerian health care providers urgently need education about emergency contraception; training
programs should target the types of providers who are less knowledgeable about the methods.
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Citation
Olufunke Margaret Ebuehi, Osaretin A. T. Ebuehi and Victor Inem