Abstract:

Background: Emergency contraception (EC) is a type of modern contraception which is indicated after unprotected sexual intercourse when regular contraception in not is use. The importance of EC is evident in preventing unintended pregnancies and its ill consequences like unintended child delivery or unsafe abortion, which are the common causes of maternal mortality. EC is found to be effective if used as soon as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse, especially within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse.

Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among female University students in Mwanza. Data in this study were collected using structured questionnaire. The questionnaires assessed the knowledge and determine attitude towards the use of emergency contraceptive pills.

Results: A total of 385 students participated in this study. Participants who had ever heard of EC were 76.9%, those who had positive attitude towards the use of EC were 55.4%. Among those who had unprotected sexual intercourse and had ever used ECP were 28.3% of all the participants. General knowledge about use of ECP as seen in results those who had good knowledge were only 48.6% of the total participants, 28.8% had average knowledge while 24.2% had poor knowledge. On average 55.4% had a positive attitude towards the use of ECP, While 5.7% were not sure and 38.9% had a negative attitude.

Conclusion: This study showed high level of ECP awareness but low usage of ECP. But also low general knowledge where only 46.8% had good knowledge, 28.8% had moderate knowledge and 24.2% had poor knowledge on average 55.4% had a positive attitude towards the use of ECP, while 5.7% were not sure and 38.9 had a negative attitude.