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Emergency contraception (EC), or postcoital contraception, is a therapy aimed at preventing unintended pregnancy after an act of unprotected or under-protected sexual intercourse. Options include both emergency contraceptive pills (most commonly containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate) and insertion of an intrauterine device. The aim of this paper is to summarize current evidence surrounding the use of emergency contraceptives and to present an evidence-based approach to EC provision. Emergency contraception is a safe and effective option in preventing unwanted pregnancy, irrespective of age, weight, or breastfeeding status. Efforts should be made to increase their availability, as well as knowledge of these methods, both among patients and healthcare providers.

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INTRODUCTION: Pharmacists' knowledge and attitude toward Emergency Oral Contraception (EOC) can affect users' access to EOCs, especially where EOCs are provided by pharmacists without the need for prescriptions. We conducted a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice (KAP) survey on Thai pharmacists to better understand KAP related to EOCs and the correlation among KAP components. METHODS: An in-depth interview, GoogleTrend search, and Pantip.com search were conducted. The findings, together with data from a previously published systematic review and meta-analysis, were used to develop KAP survey questions which were distributed online. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and linear mixed model were used to investigate the correlation and association among KAP components. RESULTS: The in-depth interview with pharmacists showed that sex and unwanted pregnancy are very sensitive topics in Thailand. Sex and EOC education should be provided by parents and healthcare professionals at a young age. This agreed with opinions from Thai internet users that sex literacy was generally low and sex education was not provided adequately. From the total of 421 survey responses, Thai pharmacists had average knowledge, poor attitude, and average practice related to EOCs (median score = 51.02%, 21.81%, and 60.0%, respectively). The correlations between KAP in pharmacists were weak (ρ = 0.107-0.525, p < 0.02). Pharmacists who rated themselves as having higher scores in knowledge and attitude also rated themselves higher in the practice score. However, the total scores describing the knowledge of or attitude toward EOCs were not associated with EOC practice scores. CONCLUSIONS: In Thai pharmacists, self-rating KAP scores overestimated total KAP scores. The correlation among KAP components was weak. EOC knowledge and attitudes should be promoted, although this may not improve EOC practice in Thai pharmacists.

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Emergency contraception (EC) refers to several contraceptive options that can be used within a few days after unprotected or under protected intercourse or sexual assault to reduce the risk of pregnancy. Current EC options available in the United States include the copper intrauterine device (IUD), levonorgestrel (LNG) 52 mg IUD, oral LNG (such as Plan B One-Step, My Way, Take Action), and oral ulipristal acetate (UPA) (ella). These clinical recommendations review the indications, effectiveness, safety, and side effects of emergency contraceptive methods; considerations for the use of EC by specific patient populations and in specific clinical circumstances and current barriers to emergency contraceptive access. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of LNG IUDs for emergency contraceptive use; address the effects of repeated use of UPA at different times in the same menstrual cycle; assess the impact on ovulation of initiating or reinitiating different regimens of regular hormonal contraception following UPA use; and elucidate effective emergency contraceptive pill options by body mass indices or weight.

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Copper T 380-A (CuT380A) intrauterine device (IUD) has been an effective method of emergency contraception (EC). Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) has not been approved by the Food and Drug Association for EC till now. There are few studies that provide data regarding the efficacy of LNG-IUS as EC. This systematic review tried to explore the efficacy of LNG-IUS in preventing accidental pregnancies up to five days of unprotected intercourse. A systematic review of the published studies on the use of LNG-IUS as EC was done. All randomized trials, prospective cohorts, retrospective cohorts. and case-control study designs pertaining to this topic were included in this review. Abstracts were retrieved and reviewed by two authors independently. Variables pertaining to socio-demographic parameters, EC use-related variables (reason for use, frequency, time elapsed since coitus), and those associated with sexual habits were selected and recorded. A total of six articles were rendered for the review. High school students and those attending college accounted for 36.8%-51.8% of the study population. Data on the reason for seeking EC showed noncompliance to routine contraception as the most common reason, followed by failure of withdrawal method, breach of barrier contraception, and unplanned intercourse. With a negligible failure rate, LNG-IUS seemed to be a good alternative to the existing copper EC. Considering the plethora of noncontraceptive benefits associated, LNG-IUS can be safely provided as an option of EC in the cafeteria approach within five days of unprotected intercourse.

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Objetivo: O atendimento médico de urgência (AMU) é fundamental na prevenção e na redução de agravos da violência sexual (VS), como o uso de anticoncepção de emergência (AE). O objetivo deste estudo é analisar 20 anos de AMU após VS entre gestantes decorrente de estupro. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 2.816 mulheres entre 1999 e 2018. Considerou-se buscar ou não o AMU após a VS e dados sociodemográficos. Analisou-se por dispersão de dados e curva exponencial de tendência. Resultados: O AMU ocorreu em 188 casos (6,7%). Neste grupo, não se prescreveu AE em 31 (16,5%) mulheres. Não houve diferença significativa nos dados sociodemográficos. Os extremos de variação dos percentuais para quem buscou AMU foram de 16,1%, em 1999, e de 2%, em 2010, com queda da linha de tendência exponencial (R2 = 0,4667). Conclusão: Não houve associação com características sociodemográficas e a queda expressiva dos percentuais de gestações sugere, indiretamente, melhora da eficácia dos serviços de saúde em prover a AE.(AU)

Objective: Emergency medical care (EMC) is essential in the prevention and reduction of sexual assault (SA), including the use of emergency contraception (EC). The aim of this study is to analyze 20 years of EMC after SA in pregnant women due to rape. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 2,816 women between 1999 and 2018. It was considered to seek or not EMC after SA and sociodemographic data. Statistical analysis was performed by data dispersion and exponential trend curve. Results: EMC occurred in 188 cases (6.7%). In this group, EC was not prescribed in 31 (16.5%). There was no significant difference in sociodemographic data. The extremes of percentage variation for those seeking EMC were 16.1% in 1999, and 2% in 2010, with a drop in the exponential trend line (R2 = 0.4667). Conclusion: There was no association with sociodemographic characteristics and the significant drop in the percentage of pregnancies indirectly suggests an improvement in the effectiveness of health services in providing EC.(AU)

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Pouco sabe-se a respeito do sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG) 52 mg em contracepção de emergência (CE). Foi realizada uma busca não sistemática em bases eletrônicas para avaliar o papel do SIU-LNG na CE e, até o momento, apenas um único trabalho que avaliou o uso isolado do SIU-LNG para uso em CE foi encontrado. Esse estudo demonstrou a não inferioridade do SIU-LNG em relação ao dispositivo intrauterino de cobre em CE. Análises secundárias desse trabalho evidenciaram baixas chances de gestação em pacientes que fizeram uso de SIU-LNG como CE, independentemente da frequência das relações sexuais desprotegidas ou do tempo em que ocorreram (até 14 dias prévios à inserção ou 7 dias após). Torna-se evidente que o SIU-LNG poderá ser uma opção viável para uso em contracepção emergencial, porém mais estudos devem ser realizados, possibilitando a validação desse método.(AU)

Little is known about the 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG- -IUS) in emergency contraception (EC). A non-systematic search was carried out in electronic databases to assess the role of the LNG-IUS in EC and, to date, only a single study that evaluated the isolated use of the LNG-IUS for EC use was found. This study demonstrated the non-inferiority of the LNG-IUS in relation to the copper intrauterine device in EC. Secondary analyzes of this study showed low chances of pregnancy in patients who used LNG-IUS as EC, regardless of the frequency of unprotected sexual intercourse or the time it took place (up to 14 days prior to insertion or 7 days after). It is evident that the LNG-IUS may be a viable option for use in emergency contraception, however, more studies must be carried out, enabling the validation of this method.(AU)

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ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE Investigate prevalence of use and knowledge about emergency contraception (EC) among female university students from two higher education institutions. METHODS Cross-sectional study with 1,740 undergraduates in the city of Santa Maria (RS), from May to October 2017. Information was collected in a semi-structured and self-administered 24-question questionnaire. The investigated variables were grouped into sociodemographic characteristics, sexual behavior, and knowledge of EC. Logistic regression was used for univariate and multivariate analysis, considering variables that presented p < 0.05. The model was adjusted using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. RESULTS The prevalence of EC use among undergraduates was 52.9%. However, only 11.9% of respondents received guidance on EC, especially on how to use it. Only 0.2% of the participants marked 120 hours as the maximum time of use, and 25.7% considered the EC to be abortive. EC use was associated with the age of first sexual intercourse. CONCLUSION EC use had a high prevalence among female university students, however, several gaps in method knowledge still exists and it demonstrates the importance of discussing this issue earlier and planning actions of an informative nature.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Investigar a prevalência de uso e o conhecimento sobre anticoncepção de emergência (AE) de mulheres universitárias de duas instituições de ensino superior. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal com 1.740 graduandas na cidade de Santa Maria (RS), no período de maio a outubro de 2017. As informações foram coletadas por meio de questionário semiestruturado e autoaplicável de 24 questões. As variáveis investigadas foram agrupadas em características sociodemográficas, comportamento sexual e conhecimento da AE. Utilizou-se regressão logística para a análise univariada e multivariada, considerando variáveis que apresentaram p < 0,05. O modelo foi ajustado pelo teste de Hosmer-Lemeshow. RESULTADOS A prevalência de uso da AE entre as graduandas foi de 52,9%. Contudo, apenas 11,9% das entrevistadas receberam orientação sobre a AE, principalmente no que se refere ao modo de uso. Apenas 0,2% das participantes marcou 120 horas como tempo máximo de uso, e 25,7% consideraram a AE abortiva. Houve associação entre uso da AE e idade da primeira relação sexual. CONCLUSÃO Constatou-se alta prevalência de uso da AE entre mulheres universitárias, no entanto, ainda existem diversas lacunas no conhecimento sobre o método, o que demonstra a importância de se discutir esse assunto mais precocemente e planejar ações de caráter informativo.

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STUDY OBJECTIVE: To understand contraceptive behaviors and decision-making in school-based health center (SBHC) female patients who have used emergency contraception (EC). DESIGN: Qualitative interviews and questionnaires. SETTING: SBHCs. PARTICIPANTS: Female adolescents, who self-reported EC use, were recruited from SBHCs. INTERVENTIONS: Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was reached on the following themes: reasons for selecting EC, perceived EC efficacy, reasons for use, nonuse, or inconsistent use of nonemergent contraception (NEC), and beliefs surrounding pregnancy risk. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The team used a modified grounded theory approach and open coding technique to identify common themes. Participants completed a questionnaire to assess demographic information and EC knowledge. RESULTS: Twenty-eight interviews were completed. Reasons for using EC include not using another contraceptive method, using another method incorrectly, or in combination with another method for added protection. Reasons for EC preference include ease of administration, ease of access, minimal side effects, perceived high efficacy, and because it can be used discreetly. Use of NEC was supported by identifying it as more effective, increased sexual experience and anticipation of sex, belief that excess EC decreases efficacy or is detrimental to health, and social interactions. Participants reported having used EC a mean of 3.5 times. Eighteen of 28 participants (65%) incorrectly believed that EC is 90%-99% effective, and 15 of 28 participants (53%) correctly identified ovulation inhibition as the mechanism of action. CONCLUSION: EC use is promoted by ease of access and administration, experiencing minimal side effects, and perceived high efficacy. Compliance issues with NEC and condoms and a desire for a discreet contraceptive method support EC use.

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Federal regulations governing access to levonorgestrel (LNG) emergency contraception (EC) have evolved since its introduction in the 1990s. LNG EC was initially available by prescription only, but is now available over-the-counter to consumers of all ages. Nonetheless, consumers seeking EC in their communities may face ongoing barriers to access, including low stock and inaccurate information provided by pharmacy staff. We conducted a review of LNG EC secret shopper studies to describe changes in EC access and barriers over time. EC access was compared across all applicable studies, which were published during 2003-2016. When possible, reasons for EC unavailability, helpfulness of pharmacy staff when EC was not in stock, and accuracy of EC information provided by pharmacy staff were described. Overall, access to EC appeared to be improving. However, EC was unavailable during 31 percent of encounters. Pharmacy staff attributed this to "low demand" (30 percent) or EC being "out of stock" (21 percent). Personal objections (9 percent) and store policy (10 percent) were also cited in studies from earlier years. Inaccurate information provided by pharmacy staff persists regarding federal EC regulations, mechanism of action, and drug administration. Pharmacy staff should remain informed about EC and its regulations in order to reduce remaining access barriers.

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OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to determine the self-reported prevalence of use of emergency contraception (EC), identify factors associated with EC use, and measure the prevalence in university students of pregnancy and abortion among users and non-users of EC. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study of university students using a self-administered questionnaire was carried out in 2016. The main dependent variable was EC use at any time. Independent variables included sociodemographic factors and factors related to harmful habits and sexual behaviour. RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 1309 students (median age 20 years). Forty per cent of participants reported using EC; condom failure was given as the main reason. Variables associated with EC use in both men and women were illegal drug consumption and having had more than 10 sexual partners. In women, other factors associated with EC use were age at first coitus and non-centrist political views. The prevalence of pregnancy was 6.5% and the prevalence of voluntary abortion was 2.9%. This prevalence was similar for men and women and for EC users and non-users. CONCLUSION: EC use in university students was more likely in those who experienced contraceptive failure or used no contraception. There were differences between men and women. Those at higher risk of unplanned pregnancy were more likely to report EC use, which may explain why there was no difference in the rates of unwanted pregnancies between EC users and non-users.

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INTRODUCTION: ectopic pregnancy is one of the causes of maternal morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Levonorgestrel (LNG) only emergency contraceptive pill is a well-established emergency contraceptive pill that is administered within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. This study aimed at determining whether or not there is a significant association between levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive use and the occurrence of ectopic pregnancy. METHODS: case-control (1:3) study among 79 women with ectopic pregnancy (cases) matched against 237 women without (controls) at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya; Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a questionnaire. Association between ectopic pregnancy and LNG-EC was assessed using Pearson chi-square test. The relationship between outcome and exposure (while adjusting for confounders) was assessed using logistic regression model. RESULTS: The mean age was 27.15 years. Both cases and controls were similar by age (p = 0.990), educational level (p = 0.850), marital status (p = 0.559), employment status (p = 0.186) and parity (p = 0.999). Seventy-eight (24.7%) participants had a history of miscarriage. A higher proportion of the cases had history of using LNG-EC compared to the controls (32.9% vs. 7.2%, p < 0.001). The use of LNG-EC portended more than nine times increased odds of ectopic pregnancy compared to other contraceptive methods {OR = 9.34 (95% CI: 3.9 - 16.0)}. CONCLUSION: levonorgestrel only emergency contraceptive use was associated with ectopic pregnancy. One of the limitations of this study is that we could not control for all confounders of ectopic pregnancy.

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Introdução: A anticoncepção de emergência (pílula de levonorgestrel) é a única opção contraceptiva para prevenir a gravidez não desejada após relações sexuais desprotegidas, seja por falha ou não uso de métodos contraceptivos, ou em casos de violência sexual. Por essa razão, o acesso a este método é considerado parte dos direitos sexuais e reprodutivos de mulheres e casais. Seu uso é relativamente frequente, principalmente no grupo mais favorecido socialmente. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre o perfil de uso entre jovens e mulheres adultas, residentes em diferentes regiões do país, o que justifica a condução deste estudo. Objetivo: Analisar o uso da anticoncepção de emergência entre mulheres usuárias de Unidades Básicas de Saúde dos municípios de São Paulo/SP, Aracaju/SE e Cuiabá/MT. Método: Estudo quantitativo, descritivo, do tipo transversal, com amostra probabilística de 2052 mulheres de 18 a 49 anos, usuárias das Unidades Básicas de Saúde de São Paulo/SP, Aracaju/SE e Cuiabá/MT, entrevistadas por meio de um instrumento estruturado com questões sobre características sóciodemográficas, história reprodutiva e uso da anticoncepção de emergência. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas por meio de números absolutos, proporções, teste de diferença entre duas proporções pelo qui-quadrado e regressão logística múltipla. Resultados: Pouco mais da metade das mulheres (56,8%) relatou ter usado anteriormente a anticoncepção de emergência. Os fatores associados ao uso anterior da anticoncepção de emergência foram a idade, entre 25 e 34 anos (OR=0,59; IC95%: 0,44-0,79), maior escolaridade (OR=2,63; IC95%: 1,76-3,94), mulheres que pertenciam ao grupo socioeconômico A e B (OR=1,92; IC95%: 1,27-2,90), que trabalhavam (OR=1,25; IC95%:1,00-1,57), e que tiveram mais parceiros sexuais (OR= 1,95; IC95%: 1,48-2,57). A maioria das mulheres que usava anteriormente pílula oral, injetável e preservativo masculino continuou usando o mesmo método após o uso da anticoncepção de emergência. Conclusão: O uso da anticoncepção de emergência foi frequente, mas não contribuiu para que as mulheres interrompessem ou trocassem o seu método contraceptivo regular.

Introduction: Emergency contraception is considered the only existing contraceptive option to prevent unwanted pregnancies after having unprotected sex, due to failure to use contraceptive methods or sexual violence. For this reason, access to this method is considered part of the sexual and reproductive rights of women and couples. Its use is relatively frequent among young people and adolescents, especially in the most economic favorable group. However, little is known about the profile of contraception use among adult women from different regions of the country of Brazil Objective: To analyze the use of emergency contraception among women users of Basic Units of Health of three cities, São Paulo city, São Paulo state, Aracaju city, Sergipe state and Cuiabá city, Mato Grosso State. Methods: A quantitative study, descriptive, cross-sectional, with a random sample of 2052 women aged 18 to 49 years, users of basic health units in São Paulo, Aracaju and Cuiabá, interviewed through a structured document with questions about sociodemographic data and reproductive history and use of emergency contraception. Statistical analyzes were performed in the Stata 14.2, using absolute numbers, proportions, chi-square difference test and multiple logistic regression. Results: Just over half (56.8%) reported having used emergency contraception and 53.3% used some contraceptive method when they used it. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, the factors associated with the previous use of emergency contraception were: age (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.44-0.79), schooling (OR = 1.75, 95% CI (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.07-1.84), perform paid work (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.01- (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.00-1.80), the number of sexual partners (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.48-2,57). The majority of women who previously used oral pill, injectable and male condom continued to the same method after using emergency contraception. Conclusion: The use of emergency contraception did not contribute to the interruption of women or their regular contraceptive method.

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OBJECTIVE: To assess access to the copper IUD as post-coital contraception (PCC) and identify barriers to obtaining this contraceptive method. STUDY DESIGN: We used a "mystery caller" approach to survey primary care, family planning, and Ob/Gyn clinics in nine U.S. cities, identified via online search. A single researcher called 199 clinics, assuming the role of a patient seeking the copper IUD for PCC. Using a standard script, the researcher collected information regarding access to the copper IUD and respondent's knowledge of the copper IUD's indication for PCC. The primary outcome was availability of the copper IUD as PCC. Secondary outcomes included any provision of the copper IUD, awareness of the copper IUD's indication for use as PCC, and offering accurate information regarding the copper IUD as PCC. Fisher's exact test was used to compare outcomes by clinic type. RESULTS: Two thirds (68%) of primary care clinics, 87% of family planning clinics, and all Ob/Gyn clinics offered the copper IUD (p<.001). Only 11% of primary care clinics, however, were aware of the copper IUD's use as PCC, as compared with 63% of family planning clinics and 24% of Ob/Gyn clinics (p<.001). Few primary care or Ob/Gyn clinics offered the copper IUD as PCC, while 49% of family planning clinics did so (p<.001). CONCLUSION: Access to the copper IUD as PCC is limited and varies by clinic type. Knowledge gaps exist regarding the use of the copper IUD as PCC, as well as regarding the general medical guidelines for copper IUD placement. IMPLICATIONS: A majority of primary care and Ob/Gyn clinics do not offer the copper IUD as PCC, and only about half of family planning clinics do so. Barriers included lack of knowledge, unavailability of device, unavailability of an appointment with a trained provider, and outdated IUD provision protocols.

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INTRODUCTION: Dedicated progestin-only emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) have been available with a prescription in Brazil since 1999. However, utilization of emergency contraception has been limited. We conducted a mystery client study at retail pharmacies in three regions to assess current availability. METHODS: Using a predetermined client profile, we approached a random sample of chain and independent pharmacies in urban areas in the southeastern, northeastern and central-west regions. We documented product availability, price and the client-pharmacy representative interaction at each site. We analyzed these data with descriptive statistics and for content and themes. RESULTS: We visited 122 pharmacies in early 2016. All but three pharmacies (97.5%) had ECPs in stock at the time of the interaction and offered our client the medication without a prescription. In general, pharmacy representatives did not ask questions or provide our client with information about emergency contraception. When prompted, over one third of the pharmacy representatives (37.7%) inaccurately reported that levonorgestrel ECPs could only be used immediately or within 12, 24 or 48h from the time of intercourse. CONCLUSION: Despite the current regulatory status, our findings suggest that progestin-only ECPs are widely available without a prescription. Additional efforts to ensure that women have up-to-date and medically accurate information about progestin-only ECPs appear warranted. Our findings suggest that more work needs to be done to align national regulatory policies with international standards and evidence-based practices. IMPLICATIONS: The Zika virus epidemic has shined a spotlight on the importance of providing timely access to emergency contraception in Latin America. This public health emergency offers a window of opportunity to advance national policies and practices to ensure that Brazilian women have access to a full range of reproductive health services.

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Resumo: A pesquisa objetivou conhecer a perspectiva dos balconistas de farmácias sobre a contracepção de emergência na Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. O material empírico advém de pesquisa socioantropológica com vinte entrevistas semiestruturadas com balconistas dos sexos feminino (8) e masculino (12). Os entrevistados apresentam concepções negativas sobre a contracepção de emergência, enfatizando os riscos que ela pode provocar à saúde. O medicamento é considerado uma "bomba hormonal" que pode causar danos aos órgãos reprodutivos femininos e outros sistemas do corpo. Eles destacam os riscos do uso "descontrolado" ou "indiscriminado", especialmente por adolescentes e mulheres jovens. Por ser considerado "perigoso" aos corpos femininos, eles atribuem a responsabilidade de orientação e aconselhamento sobre o uso do método aos médicos ginecologistas e não aos farmacêuticos. Discute-se a necessidade de ampliação do debate público sobre contracepção de emergência no Brasil, incluindo-se os farmacêuticos e balconistas de farmácia, além dos profissionais de saúde e educadores.

Abstract: This study focused on views towards emergency contraception among pharmacy attendants in Greater Metropolitan Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The empirical material came from a socio-anthropological study with 20 semi-structured interviews of pharmacy attendants of both sexes (8 females and 12 males). The interviews showed negative views of emergency contraception, emphasizing its potential health risks. Interviews considered emergency contraception a "hormone bomb" that can harm the female reproductive organs and other organ systems. The pharmacy attendants highlighted the risks of "uncontrolled" or "indiscriminate" use, especially by adolescents and young women. Since they considered it "dangerous" to women's bodies, they assigned the responsibility for orientation and counseling on use of the method to gynecologists rather than to pharmacists. The article discusses the need to expand the public debate on emergency contraception in Brazil to include pharmacists and pharmacy attendants, in addition to health professionals in general and teachers.

Resumen: La investigación tuvo como objetivo conocer la perspectiva de los auxiliares de farmacias sobre los contraceptivos de emergencia en la Región Metropolitana de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. El material empírico proviene de una investigación socioantropológica con 20 entrevistas semiestructuradas con auxiliares de sexo femenino (8) y masculino (12). Los entrevistados presentan concepciones negativas sobre la anticoncepción de emergencia, enfatizando los riesgos que puede provocar en la salud. El medicamento es considerado una "bomba hormonal" que puede causar daños a los órganos reproductivos femeninos y otros sistemas del cuerpo. Ellos destacan los riesgos del uso "descontrolado" o "indiscriminado", especialmente por adolescentes y mujeres jóvenes. Por ser considerado "peligroso" para el cuerpo femenino, ellos atribuyen la responsabilidad de la orientación y asesoría sobre el uso de este método anticonceptivo a los médicos ginecólogos, y no a los farmacéuticos. Se discute la necesidad de la ampliación del debate público sobre la anticoncepción de emergencia en Brasil, incluyéndose a farmacéuticos y auxiliares de farmacia, además de los profesionales de salud y educadores.

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Abstract This study aimed to test how knowledge on emergency contraception (according to age at sexual initiation, type of school, and knowing someone that has already used emergency contraception) influences the method’s use. This was a cross-sectional study in a probabilistic sample of students 15-19 years of age enrolled in public and private middle schools in a medium-sized city in Southeast Brazil (n = 307). Data were collected in 2011 using a self-administered questionnaire. A structural equations model was used for the data analysis. Considering age at sexual initiation and type of school, knowledge of emergency contraception was not associated with its use, but knowing someone that had used the method showed a significant mean effect on use of emergency contraception. Peer group conversations on emergency contraception appear to have greater influence on use of the method than knowledge itself, economic status, or sexual experience.

Resumo O objetivo do trabalho foi testar como o conhecimento da anticoncepção de emergência, na presença da idade de iniciação sexual, tipo de escola e conhecer alguém que já usou a anticoncepção de emergência, influencia no uso deste método. Estudo transversal realizado com uma amostra probabilística com estudantes de 15-19 anos, matriculados no Ensino Médio de escolas públicas e privadas em uma cidade de porte médio do Sudeste do Brasil (n = 307). Os dados foram coletados em 2011, por meio de um questionário autoadministrado. Modelo de equações estruturais foi usado para análise de dados. Considerando a idade de iniciação sexual e o tipo de escola, o conhecimento da anticoncepção de emergência não foi associado com o seu uso, no entanto, conhecer alguém que já tinha usado o método mostrou um efeito médio significativo no uso da anticoncepção de emergência. Parece que as conversas a respeito do uso da anticoncepção de emergência nas relações sociais, como o grupo de pares, têm maior influência sobre a utilização do método do que o próprio conhecimento, situação econômica ou experiência sexual.

Resumen El objetivo del estudio fue probar cómo el conocimiento sobre la anticoncepción de emergencia, durante la edad de iniciación sexual, tipo de escuela y conocer a alguien que ya usó métodos anticonceptivos de emergencia, influencia en el uso de este método. Se trata de un estudio transversal, realizado con una muestra probabilística con estudiantes de 15-19 años matriculados en Enseñanza Media de escuelas públicas y privadas en una ciudad mediana del sudeste de Brasil (n = 307). Los datos se recogieron en 2011, a través de un cuestionario auto-administrado. Se usó un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales para el análisis de datos. Considerando la edad de iniciación sexual, y el tipo de escuela, el conocimiento de la anticoncepción de emergencia no fue asociado con su uso, no obstante, conocer a alguien que ya había usado el método mostró un efecto medio significativo en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos de emergencia. Parece que las conversaciones, respecto al uso de la anticoncepción de emergencia en las relaciones sociales, como el grupo de parejas, tiene mayor influencia sobre la utilización del método que el propio conocimiento, situación económica o experiencia sexual.

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OBJECTIVES: Although adolescents and young adults of lower socioeconomic status (SES) are disproportionately affected by unintended pregnancies, research on experiences with emergency contraception (EC) in this population has lagged. Furthermore, it is unclear whether EC-related knowledge and behaviour varies between young men and women. This study investigated knowledge, attitudes and experiences with EC among low SES young men and women aged 18-25 years. METHODS: One hundred and ninety-eight new enrollees at two Los Angeles primary medical care clinics completed surveys about their knowledge, past use and likelihood of using EC. Chi square (χ(2)) and regression analyses assessed gender differences in knowledge and attitudes. RESULTS: Women were more likely than men to accurately answer questions about EC and its use. Across both sexes, accurate knowledge predicted future willingness to use EC. Only half the women and a third of men knew that EC could be directly dispensed by pharmacists; even fewer knew that the legal access age for EC was 17 years (13%) or that men could access EC from pharmacies for their female partners (24%). Although respondents most commonly reported that friends were their source of current information about EC, both men and women chose health care professionals as their desired source of future information about EC. CONCLUSIONS: Young men in this sample were significantly less knowledgeable than young women about EC. Educating young men about EC by health care providers during routine visits may be a unique opportunity to increase EC knowledge, access and use among low-income young couples to decrease undesired pregnancies.

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O objetivo do estudo foi analisar o nível de conhecimento sobre anticoncepção de emergência entre adolescentes do Ensino Médio de escolas públicas e privadas. Estudo transversal com a participação de 705 estudantes de 15 a 19 anos, matriculados no Ensino Médio de escolas públicas e privadas de um município do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Utilizou-se amostragem probabilística estratificada por tipo de escola e sistemática por turma. Cerca de 24,9% dos adolescentes das escolas privadas e 32% das escolas públicas haviam iniciado a vida sexual e usado a anticoncepção de emergência. A média de escore de conhecimento foi de 3,87 (DP = 2,12) nas escolas públicas e 5,14 (DP = 2,00) nas escolas privadas. Análise de regressão linear múltipla mostrou que adolescentes de escolas privadas, do sexo feminino, com mais idade, que já tinham iniciado a vida sexual, usado a anticoncepção de emergência e conheciam alguém que já usou o método, foram as que alcançaram o maior escore de conhecimento. Conclui-se que poucos adolescentes estão corretamente informados sobre o método e muitos têm ideias equivocadas.

This study aimed to analyze the level of knowledge concerning emergency contraception among adolescents in public and private high schools. This was a cross-sectional study with 705 students 15 to 19 years of age enrolled in public and private high schools in a municipality in São Paulo State, Brazil. The authors used stratified probabilistic sampling by type of school and systematic sampling by class. Sexual initiation and use of emergency contraception were reported by 24.9% of private school students and 32% of public school students. The mean score on knowledge was 3.87 (SD = 2.12) in public schools and 5.14 (SD = 2.00) in private schools. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher scores on knowledge concerning emergency contraception were associated with: enrollment in private schools, female gender, older adolescents, sexual initiation, previous use of emergency contraception, and knowing someone who had used the method. The study concludes that few adolescents are properly informed about the method and that many harbor persistent misconceptions.

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el grado de conocimiento sobre la anticoncepción de emergencia en adolescentes de escuela secundaria en escuelas públicas y privadas. Se trata de un estudio transversal con la participación de 705 estudiantes, de 15 a 19 años, matriculados en educación secundaria en un municipio de São Paulo, Brasil. Se realizó un muestreo aleatorio estratificado por tipo de escuela y sistemático por clase. Cerca de un 24,9% de los estudiantes de escuelas privadas y el 32% de las escuelas públicas habían iniciado su vida sexual, usando anticoncepción de emergencia. La puntuación media de los conocimientos fue 3,87 (DP = 2,12) en las escuelas públicas y 5,14 (DP = 2,00) en las privadas. El análisis de regresión lineal múltiple mostró que los adolescentes de las escuelas privadas, mujeres, mayores, que habían iniciado su vida sexual, utilizaban anticoncepción de emergencia y quienes utilizaron el método fueron los que lograron mejores resultados en conocimientos. Llegamos a la conclusión de que pocos adolescentes están informados sobre es método anticonceptivo.

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O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as diferenças regionais de conhecimento, opinião e uso de anticoncepção de emergência entre universitários brasileiros. Questionário semi-estruturado abordando conhecimento, opinião, experiência com anticoncepção de emergência e comportamento sexual foi aplicado a adolescentes de universidades brasileiras. Para análise estatística utilizou-se o teste exato de Fisher e ANOVA. Diferenças foram significantes quando o valor de p < 0,05. Cerca de 96 por cento (n = 588) dos estudantes já tinham ouvido falar sobre anticoncepção de emergência, 19 por cento (n = 111) conheciam as situações nas quais está indicada, com diferenças inter-regionais; 42 por cento das meninas que tinham vida sexual ativa já tinham feito uso do método; 35 por cento (n = 207) dos estudantes consideravam contracepção de emergência abortiva e 81 por cento (n = 473) achavam que traz riscos à saúde, sem diferença significativa entre as regiões nas questões relativas a uso e à opinião. As diferenças inter-regionais sobre conhecimento não impactaram no uso e na opinião dos adolescentes sobre anticoncepção de emergência. Programas nacionais devem ser conduzidos para melhorar o conhecimento sobre o método.

The aim of this study was to evaluate regional differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practice in emergency contraception use among Brazilian university students. A sample of university students answered a semi-structured questionnaire on knowledge, attitudes, and practice related to emergency contraception and sexual behavior. Fisher's exact test and ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Ninety-six percent (n = 588) of the students had heard of emergency contraception, and 19 percent (n = 111) knew all the situations in which emergency contraception is indicated, with statistical differences between regions of the country. Forty-two percent of sexually active women in the sample had already used emergency contraception; 35 percent (n = 207) of students equated emergency contraception with abortion; and 81 percent (n = 473) thought emergency contraception involves health risks. No significant difference was observed between regions of the country regarding use and attitudes towards emergency contraception. Inter-regional differences in knowledge had no impact on students' attitudes and practice in emergency contraception. National awareness-raising campaigns are needed to improve knowledge on emergency contraception.

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Existe amplia controversia acerca del mecanismo de acción del levonorgestrel como anticonceptivo oral de emergencia; numerosas organizaciones, tanto científicas como de la sociedad civil, muestran su disconformidad con su uso, debido a su posible acción como inductor de aborto. Con el objetivo de evaluar la evidencia científica disponible sobre los mecanismos de acción del levonorgestrel utilizado como anticonceptivo oral de emergencia (AOE), se realizó una revisión sistemática en las bases de datos Medline y Cochrane Library donde se encontró 444 artículos; después de revisar los resúmenes, se seleccionó 22 artículos, los cuales fueron evaluados a texto completo. Se encontró que el principal mecanismo de acción del levonorgestrel, a las dosis recomendadas como AOE, es la inhibición o retraso de la ovulación; no afecta a los espermatozoides en su capacidad de migración ni de penetración al óvulo. No se ha demostrado alteraciones morfológicas ni moleculares en el endometrio que puedan interferir con la implantación del huevo fecundado. No existe evidencia científica actual disponible que sustente que el uso de levonorgestrel como AOE sea abortivo.

There is wide controversy about the mechanism of action of the levonorgestrel used for emergency oral contraception, and many organizations, both scientific as well as from the civil society, show their discrepancy with its use, due to its possible action as an abortion-inducer. In order to evaluate the scientific evidence available on the mechanisms of action of the levonorgestrel used for emergency oral contraception (EOC), a systematic revision was performed in the Medline and Cochrane library databases. We found 444 articles. After reviewing the abstracts, we selected 22 articles, whose complete texts were evaluated. We found that the main mechanism of action of the levonorgestrel, given at the doses recommended for EOC, is the inhibition or retardation of the ovulation, it doesn't affect the spermatozoa in their migration or egg-penetration capacities. No morphological or molecular alterations in the endometrium that could interfere with the implantation of the fertilized egg have been demonstrated. There is no actual scientific evidence available supporting that the use of levonorgestrel for EOC is abortive.

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