Comparison of knowledge of oral contraceptive pills user women, who received their medication from pharmacies or health care centers

Abstract

Background: Oral Contraceptive pills (OCPs) are one of the most common used ways for preventing unwanted pregnancies, but in order to guarantee a higher rate of success, correct usage is essential. The present study aimed to examine the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of the OCPs users. Methods: Two hundred women who received their OCP from a local health center (group 1; n=?) or from a pharmacy (group 2; n=) were questioned according a pre-designed questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of questions regarding the demographic information, correct usage of OCPs, their side effects, contraindications, non-contraceptive benefits, and some myth-based questions. The rates of correct answers were compared between the two groups using t-test. Results: The most commonly used OCP was LD (low dose) contraceptive. The rate of previous unwanted pregnancies for group 1 and 2 was 35 and 24%, respectively. The subjects in group 1 were counseled extensively on the proper use of the contraceptive, and no counseling was performed with the subjects in group 2. The level of knowledge outweighed the level of counseling provided to the subjects. Conclusions: Regarding the information and consultation that were given to the subjects by their health services, the subjects' knowledge on the proper use of the oral contraceptive pills was high but not to an extent that would be. The results of this study suggest that health services, especially pharmacies should provide more information and consultation about OCPs for their clients. Copyright آ© 2013 by Tabriz University of Medical Sciences.