knowledge and perception of emergency contraception of women in shahrekord-iran

objective: the aim of this study was to determine knowledge and attitude about emergency contraception among women using condom, coitus interruptus and rhythm methods. materials and methods: between april and september 2006, 400 women referring to the health centers in shahrekord, were evaluated. they entered the study if they were using condom, coitus interruptus or rhythm methods. a questionnaire including demographic information, contraceptive method in use, and patients' awareness and attitude/practice about emergency contraception was completed for each participant. results: of the 400 responders, 60.5% were using condom, 38.7% were using coitus interruptus and 0.8% were practicing rhythm method. the awareness was inadequate in 22.5% of women, moderate in 55% and adequate in 22% of them. the attitude of users was positive in more than 70% of them and only 20.5% of women had practiced emergency contraception. the relation of age and job with awareness was significant (p<0.001). a significant relation was considered between the level of education and knowledge of women (p<0.01). the women who had adequate knowledge had practiced the emergency contraception better than those with inadequate knowledge (p<0.001). however, only 27.1% of responders who reported knowing about emergency contraception knew the correct time frame in which emergency contraceptives must be used. conclusion: there is a critical need to train the women about emergency contraception, emphasizing available methods and correct timing.