ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to investigate the knowledge and experience about emergency contraception in our gynecologic population and to evaluate it with respect to educational level and age groups. The study was performed on 644 participants at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department and Family Planning Unit of Gulhane Military Medical Academy. A questionnarie was performed to all participants. The rate of participants who knew emergency contraception correctly was 17.5%. The rate was higher among women who were young and whose educational level was high. Fifty three point nine per cent of women (n=347) did not know anything about emergency contraception. It may be concluded that in this population, the knowledge and the usage of emergency contraception is surprisingly low, and family planning education programs should include this type of contraception.

Keywords: Emergency contraception, experience, knowledge, unintended pregnancy