The profile of emergency contraception users in a chlamydia prevalence study in primary care in Belgium

Introduction We describe the use of emergency contraception (EC) and its association with sociodemographic, contraceptive and behavioural characteristics in a sample of family practice attendants in Belgium. Methods The study was part of a large Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) prevalence study in general practice. Sexually active women under 40 who consulted their general practitioner for routine gynaecological care were enrolled in the study. Participants completed a questionnaire on sociodemographic variables, urogenital symptoms, sexual history and sexual behaviour, and delivered a sample for CT testing. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify determinants of a history of EC use in women in this sample. Results Of 815 questioned women, 23.5% had ever used EC. EC users were a heterogeneous group with respect to educational level, age and ethnicity. The use of emergency contraception was associated with the level of urbanisation, condom use, not having children yet, young age of first sexual intercourse, having had multiple partners in the past year, a history of unintended pregnancy, and current or previous STI. Discussion Information on availability and correct use of EC, and on the need for additional testing for STI, are necessary to help primary care attendees to preserve their future reproductive health.