Knowledge, attitudes, and use of emergency contraception among Hispanic women of North Carolina.

INTRODUCTION

This project was designed to determine the knowledge, attitudes and self-reported use of emergency contraception (EC) of Spanish-speaking women of western North Carolina.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional survey, a convenience sample of patients completed the survey in exam or interview rooms of an obstetric and gynecology residency program in western North Carolina. Participants included 213 Spanish-speaking women of childbearing age (18 to 44-years-old) presenting for routine care between August 2004 and October 2006.

RESULTS

Seventy percent of the sexually active respondents (N = 196) reported inconsistent use of birth control. Only 22% reporting knowing about EC; an additional 26% knew about the morning after pill. Overall, 12% reported previous use of EC. Very few (15%) reported a moral or religious objection to EC. Only 21% reported having discussed EC with a care provider.

DISCUSSION: Considerable opportunity exists to expand patient education about all contraceptive options, including EC with Hispanic women of western North Carolina.